Biggest takeaways from the Panthers' painful Week 15 loss to Saints

The Carolina Panthers’ momentum towards their first playoff berth since 2017 stalled once more, and now twice to the New Orleans Saints.

For the second time here in 2025, the Saints spoiled the hopes of the Panthers. Their latest trip-up came in their trip down to New Orleans, where they ate a painful 20-17 loss on Sunday.

Let’s go over our biggest takeaways from the disappointing defeat . . .

Defense’s mistakes prove costly

Carolina’s defense was responsible for many of their 11 penalties on the evening. Drawing fouls on a wide range of mistakes—including hands to the face, holding, pass interference and personals—the unit was simply not sharp enough.

Safety Lathan Ransom’s unnecessary roughness foul on Saints quarterback Tyler Shough was, perhaps, the most costly of all. The rookie’s hit on the sliding passer gave New Orleans an extra 15 yards in the waning seconds of the game and set up the go-ahead 47-yard field goal.

The group also lapsed in coverage, giving up damaging chunks in the second half. Saints wideout Chris Olave recorded four of his six catches and 78 of his 85 yards in the fourth.

A lack of discipline doomed the Panthers.

Saints defense stifles Panthers offense once more

Panthers quarterback Bryce Young was sound for much of the game—keeping plays alive, working and generating throws from muddied pockets and showcasing the creativity that kept his team alive. But the Saints defense made enough stops to hold him and Carolina at bay.

Young completed 15 of his 24 throws for 163 yards and a touchdown. He also scrambled for another 49 yards.

New Orleans, however, kept the pressure on—especially in Carolina’s final offensive possession prior to the game-winning kick. They also contained the rushing attack, holding running backs Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard to a combined 78 yards on 24 carries.

Like he did in Week 10, Saints defensive coordinator Brandon Staley was able to get the best of Panthers head coach and offensive play-caller Dave Canales.

Panthers still control their own playoff destiny

Yeah, this loss was a bummer—but it’s not, by any means, a nail in Carolina’s coffin.

The Panthers and Buccaneers, both at 7-7, will go into their Week 16 showdown in a tie atop the NFC South. They’ll also match up against one another in Week 18, to close out the regular season.

With Tampa Bay seemingly spiraling, Carolina still has a great opportunity ahead of them.

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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers vs. Saints 2025: Biggest takeaways from the Week 15 loss