The Carolina Panthers' 2024 season began with a significant thud, as they suffered a monumental 47-10 defeat at the hands of the New Orleans Saints. The loss, marking the team's worst on opening day, has elicited a wave of response from fans and spectators. Notably, country music star Luke Combs, a self-proclaimed lifetime Panthers supporter and native of Huntersville, North Carolina, expressed his dismay over the team's performance, describing it as "Absolutely gruesome to watch" on a post on X, according to Athlon Sports.
New year, same old @Panthers. Absolutely gruesome watch.
— Luke Combs 🎤 (@lukecombs) September 8, 2024
Despite a change in leadership with Dave Canales stepping in as head coach and high hopes for quarterback Bryce Young's second-year improvement, the Panthers failed to bring their A-game. Combs, "New year, same old Panthers," a sentiment that captures the frustration felt across the fan base, and the team's performance seemed to warrant such disappointment, as highlighted by WBTV. The game unfolded disastrously from the outset, with Carolina trailing by 30 points before halftime, and Young threw two interceptions in a game where he only completed 13 out of 30 pass attempts.
The Panthers' offense was not the only aspect of the team that faced criticism; their defensive capabilities were similarly brought into question. According to ESPN, the Panthers’ defense made Saints quarterback Derek Carr shine, allowing three touchdown passes and a 142.5 passer rating. The Panthers new coach, Dave Canales, suggested a long road ahead for the team, advising fans that "It's a long journey to become us."
Following the Panthers' defeat, social media discussions quickly shifted from criticism to finding solutions, with some fans suggesting benching young quarterback Bryce Young. However, there’s hope as the Panthers prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers in their home opener. Canales and the team have an opportunity to move past this loss and regain support from disillusioned fans. As Young said after the game, "We learn what we can do better and what we do well and move on from it. We have to let that [loss go]. The days and the time periods we are allowed to feel certain ways and focus on whatever it is, keep it there, and then we move on," according to WBTV.
