Davis scores three TDs in Panthers win

Willis for his ‘‘doubt Miami the ‘‘for Kenny Whitehurst’s Conference) third gave to Florida Phillips, knee, wished he coming at ago. CHARLOTTE (AP) — It was no Super Bowl reprise because neither team played that well. Instead, the Carolina Panthers did just enough to hand the New England Patriots a 27-17 loss.

Stephen Davis scored three touchdowns Sunday to help the Panthers past a New England team that looked nothing like a winner of three of the last four Super Bowls.

It was the first regular-season meeting between the teams since the Patriots’ thrilling 32-29 Super Bowl win two seasons ago, and if it was any indication, neither team is ready to play for a championship.

Carolina (1-1) won in spite of Jake Delhomme, who was off all day and had an interception by Mike Vrable returned 24 yards for a touchdown. Delhomme finished 11-of-26 for 154 yards and no touchdowns.

Carolina limited the Patriots to 39 yards rushing.