Overview

• Carolina dropped to 1-3 after the Patriots turned a 6-0 Panthers start into 42 straight points before a late consolation score.
• Special teams swung the game with a missed extra point and a missed 55-yard try by rookie Ryan Fitzgerald plus Marcus Jones' 87-yard punt-return touchdown as part of 167 return yards allowed.
• An anemic pass rush produced one sack while injuries to starting edge rushers Patrick Jones II and D. J. Wonnum pushed rookies into larger roles and helped Drake Maye go 14-of-17 for 203 yards with two passing touchdowns and a rushing score.
• The offense stalled after the opening drive as Bryce Young threw for 150 yards and a touchdown on an off day with repeated misfires to rookie Tetairoa McMillan.
• Canales accepted full responsibility, said he will continue to call plays and indicated no immediate staff changes, while players including Jaycee Horn and Derrick Brown emphasized shared accountability before hosting the Dolphins next.