Grades

Staff writer Charles Chandler offers his assessment of the Panthers play on Sunday:

B Quarterback: Jake Delhomme was as good as he's ever been on the final drive, but the Panthers have got to do a better job in the red zone.

A Running Backs: DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart run hard and effectively. It was wise the way the coaches alternated them to make sure a fresh back was in the game at all times. This is quite a one-two combination.

B Tight ends/receivers: Dante Rosario was sensational and the receivers played well, especially considering they were missing Steve Smith. D.J. Hackett's fumble almost cost the Panthers the game, but he also had some fine moments.

A Offensive Line: That was no flimsy defense the Panthers' line dominated in the running game. Massive holes were opened for the running backs, just like in the third exhibition game against Washington. Pass protection for Delhomme was also more than sufficient. He was sacked just once.

B- Defensive line: Julius Peppers and the defensive line got some pressure on Chargers' quarterback Philip Rivers, but they had no sacks. That's a disappointment, especially since starting left tackle Marcus McNeill was out with an injury. The line did a respectable job against the run.

B- Linebackers: Na'il Diggs had the team's only sack and ranked second on the team with eight tackles. Jon Beason had seven solos.

B+ Defensive Backs: Other than giving up a long touchdown pass on busted coverage, the secondary play well. Safety Chris Harris caused a fumble that led to Chris Gamble's touchdown. Harris also led the team with 10 tackles and had perhaps the Panthers' hardest hit on San Diego running back LaDainian Tomlinson.

B- Special Teams: Overall, a good job, especially in the kicking game, but the Panthers have got to eliminate mistakes on kick returns. Stewart fumbled a kickoff return, but recovered it. Punt returner Matt Jones misfielded a kick, which almost led to a turnover that could've cost the Panthers the game. John Kasay was four-of-four on field goal attempts.

A Coaching: Kudos for John Fox and his staff for winning this game on the road against one of the NFL's best teams and toughest home crowds, especially without Steve Smith. This gives Carolina some serious momentum going forward.