SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The door could be open for Cam Newton to return, but the Carolina Panthers have more serious issues to address than quarterback if they hope to be a contender for an NFC playoff spot.
First, the blame for Sunday's 51-13 loss to the San Francisco 49ers can't be placed totally on quarterback Kyle Allen, who came into the game with a 4-0 record since taking over in Week 3.
The defense that had been dominating much of the past four weeks was dreadful, giving up 264 yards and four touchdowns in the first half alone.