49ers vs. Panthers: How Carolina spoils Week 5 for San Francisco

Reason No. 1: 49ers offense struggles to the point of letting Panthers hang around

San Francisco fans saw this in both Week 1 against the Chicago Bears and then again in Week 3 versus the Broncos: a stout defensive performance marred by lackluster offensive execution.

Week 3 was of particular concern, as Jimmy Garoppolo was wholly inefficient and responsible for two notable plays — a safety and a fourth-quarter interception — that ultimately ensured Denver would pull away with the otherwise-lackluster 11-10 victory over the 49ers.

That’d be the kind of formula Carolina wants to see on Sunday.

The Panthers can’t win in shootout fashion. Their offense, dead last in total yards gained with 1,049, won’t be able to keep pace with even a modest showing from Garoppolo and a still-inconsistent Niners offense.

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That offense might experience some challenges, too, as Carolina’s defense has managed to stay in the middle of the pack despite its own offensive struggles. Over four games, the Panthers are allowing just 19.5 points per contest, and they’re allowing a respectable 5 yards per play, which is tied for eighth best.

If Carolina is able to frustrate Garoppolo to the point of slowing down San Francisco’s offense, it might lead to an eerily similar situation as the 49ers experienced in Week 3 where some late-game breakdowns lead to a Panthers win.

Even if no one predicted such a thing happening.