ESPN.com · Jan 25, 2016
Panthers have another big halftime lead but lose two defensive starters
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- You could hear whispers in the press box when the Carolina Panthers jumped to a 17-0 lead in the first quarter of the NFC Championship Game against the Arizona Cardinals.
“The Cardinals have the Panthers right where they want them,’’ reporters collectively said.
That’s because the Panthers have given up most if not all of four leads between 17 and 35 points in four games this season. That includes a 31-0 halftime lead that ended in a seven-point win against Seattle a week ago.
That two of Carolina’s defensive starters, outside linebacker Thomas Davis (arm) and safety Roman Harper (eye), are out for the rest of the game makes the situation more tenuous.