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Panthers defense leads the way in win over Lions

Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports / Reuters

The return of Cam Newton was the story heading in, but the Carolina Panthers' defense came away with the most impressive performance of the game, stifling the high-powered Detroit Lions offense on their way to a 24-7 win.

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Here's what you need to know...

  • After the Lions took a 7-6 lead with a touchdown to start the 3rd quarter, the Panthers would go on to score 18 unanswered points and come away with a rather convincing win in all facets of the game.
     
  • Even without Greg Hardy in the lineup, the Panthers defense was able to disrupt the Lions offense throughout the game, totaling four sacks and one interception of quarterback Matthew Stafford.
     
  • The Panthers, as a result of that pressure on Stafford, were also able to slow down Calvin Johnson just enough to be successful. While his six-catch, 83-yard performance led all receivers in the game, it was nowhere near his regular impact.
     
  • Cam Newton, in his first game of the season, gave the offense the boost it needed, throwing for 281 yards and one touchdown, and picking up 19 rushing yards on four attempts.
     
  • While there was concern about the Panthers' receiving corps heading into the season, they proved capable of making plays to move the chains. Tight end Greg Olson led the group with six catches for 72 yards.

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