Overview

• New England seized momentum with Marcus Jones' 87-yard punt-return touchdown, part of 167 punt-return yards that flipped field position.
• Panthers rookie kicker Ryan Fitzgerald missed an extra point and a 55-yard field-goal try as special teams faltered.
• After an opening-drive score, Bryce Young and the offense repeatedly stalled near midfield, with misfires to Tetairoa McMillan and erratic decisions.
• Carolina generated minimal pressure—just one nominal sack—while Drake Maye completed 14 of 17 passes for 203 yards and two touchdowns behind chunk gains on screens and handoffs.
• Carolina next hosts Miami, a reset opportunity one week after a 30-0 high gave way to this lopsided defeat.