7 takeaways from the Saints' 33-14 loss to the Panthers - NOLA.com

Photo by Michael DeMocker, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune

The Carolina Panthers defeated a makeshift New Orleans Saints team 33-14 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday (Dec. 30).

The loss dropped the Saints' record to 13-3 and prevented them from securing the best regular-season record in club history. The Saints also went 13-3 in 2009 and 2011.

On the bright side, the loss means the Saints lost to the same three teams this season as they did when they won the Super Bowl in 2009: Carolina; Dallas; and Tampa Bay.

A look at my takeaways from the game:

1. The defensive performance was ugly

Photo by Michael DeMocker, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune

1. The defensive performance was ugly

Yes, it was nothing more than a glorified exhibition game but the Saints starting defense played the entire first half and its performance left a lot to be desired. Panthers third-string quarterback Kyle Allen drove Carolina to three touchdowns and a field goal in four first-half series, taking a commanding 23-0 lead at halftime. The Panthers outgained the Saints 251-95 in total yards and 20-6 first downs in the first half. The defensive unit is certainly not going to enjoy reviewing the game tape of this one, assuming they actually watch it. It was an ugly effort by any standards, even if the Saints were simply going through the motions.

2. Injury scares made for uneasy moments

Photo by Michael DeMocker, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune

2. Injury scares made for uneasy moments

The Saints' worst fears were realized in the first half when Sheldon Rankins, Alex Okafor and Andrus Peat all went down with injuries. Fortunately, none of the maladies appeared to be serious. Rankins, who was injured on the first defensive snap, returned to action several plays later. Okafor also returned to play a series later. Peat's injury was to his hand. He did not return and was replaced by Derek Newton at left tackle. Worst, starting cornerback Marshon Lattimore limped to the sideline in the second quarter and did not return to the game. A team spokesman designated his playing status as a coach's decision.

3. Teddy Bridgewater's debut was underwhelming

Photo by Michael DeMocker, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune

3. Teddy Bridgewater's debut was underwhelming

Saints fans eagerly anticipated a first glance at backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, but the 5-year veteran struggled in his official Saints debut. To be fair, Bridgewater played behind a makeshift offensive line for most of the game and rarely had time to go trough his progressions and deliver the ball downfield. But even when he did have time, he struggled to find a rhythm and consistently move the offense. On the positive side, Bridgewater showed excellent command of the offense and flashed some impressive scrambling skills in the teeth of a consistent Carolina pass rush. Still, Bridgewater could not have been happy with his performance. His final numbers, 14 of 22 for 118 yards with one touchdown and one interception, were underwhelming to say the least. In fact, his performance further bolstered Saints fans opinions of and appreciation for Drew Brees.

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