Saints Can’t Handle Panthers, Fall To 0-2

Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers shakes hands with  Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints after their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 16, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The New Orleans Saints fell to the Carolina Panthers, 35-27, on Sunday, dropping them to 0-2 on the young 2012 NFL season.

Carolina led at the half, 21-13, and then took a 28-13 lead into the fourth quarter, before hanging on for the eight-point victory.

The Saints outgained the Panthers, in terms of total offense, 486 yards to 463, but two turnovers them, including a Drew Brees interception in the first quarter that was returned for a touchdown by Charles Godfrey.

Quarterback Cam Newton paced the Carolina offense, completing 14-of-20 passes for 253 yards, and a touchdown, while also rushing for 71 yards and a score on 13 carries.

In a losing cause for New Orleans, they were led by quarterback Drew Brees, who completed 31-of-49 passes for 325 yards, along with a touchdown and two interceptions.

Running back Pierre Thomas rushed for 110 yards on nine carries, while Darren Sproles caught 13 passes for 128 yards.

With the win, the Panthers improved to 1-1, while the Saints fell to 0-2.

View the game box score.

The Saints return to action next Sunday, when they play host to the Kansas City Chiefs.