Cedric Benson scored two touchdowns and the Cincinnati Bengals forced four turnovers, ruining rookie quarterback Jimmy Clausen's first NFL start with a 20-7 victory Sunday at Bank of America Stadium.

Benson opened the scoring with a 1-yard run in the first quarter and capped it with a 7-yard touchdown reception from Carson Palmer in the fourth. He finished with 81 yards on 27 carries.

Palmer threw for 195 yards on 19-of-37 passing with one touchdown and two interceptions.

Clausen was responsible for three of Carolina's four turnovers, throwing an interception and losing two fumbles. He completed 16 of 33 passes for 188 yards.

DeAngelo Williams rushed for 64 yards on 10 carries for the Panthers (0-3), and Jonathan Stewart scored Carolina's lone touchdown on a 1-yard run in the third quarter.

Mike Nugent kicked field goals of 33 and 50 yards for Cincinnati (2-1).