The first shots from the Guerriere were undercharged, so, of course they bounced off. Against a European frigate, an undercharge would have the shot go through the first bulkhead, and then bounce around inside causing mayhem and death. A full charge even at distance would go through one side and then out the other, causing damage, but, not as bad.
It was too late after that, the Consitution’s Oak was better than the Brits at close range and the American Frigate, being a bigger ship, with more guns, won the day. Even after a fierce boarding action!
Also, the Americans followed the French tactic of firing on the up roll into the rigging. The RN practiced firing on the down roll into the hull.