The Carolina Panthers have faced significant challenges this past season, particularly in their offensive game. A detailed look at their performance metrics paints a vivid picture of where the team stands and what needs to be improved.
Struggles on the Ground
The Carolina Panthers found themselves in the lower echelon of the NFL when it came to rushing yards, accumulating just 1,769 yards. This placed them in the bottom half of the league. With an average of 4 yards per carry, it’s evident that while efficiency wasn't entirely lacking, translating those yards into scoring opportunities was a major hurdle. The Panthers managed a league-low seven rushing touchdowns, highlighting a critical area for improvement.
Turbulence in the Air
Passing also proved to be a persistent problem for the Panthers. The team recorded the fewest passing yards in the league, with a total of 3,245 yards. Even more concerning was their inability to capitalize in the red zone, as they tied for the second-fewest passing touchdowns with just 13. Additionally, the Panthers' passing first-down percentage stood at a dismal 25.6%, the lowest in the league. This inability to move the chains undoubtedly put additional strain on both the offense and defense throughout the season.
Under Pressure
Protection for the quarterback was another significant issue, as the Panthers allowed the second-most sacks in the league, with a staggering 65 sacks. This speaks to the struggles of the offensive line and the constant pressure faced by Bryce Young, who finished his rookie season with a 2-15 record. The high sack total not only reflects the challenges of the line but also the adjustment period for Young in his first NFL season.
Coaching and Player Changes
This offseason has been pivotal for the Panthers under the leadership of rookie head coach Dave Canales. Recognizing the need for a stronger run game, the team drafted running back Jonathon Brooks, a move that Canales believes will be transformative. "That's what this draft and this offseason was all about. I feel confident that we'll be able to have a successful run game, which, for me, opens everything else up. It helps third down, it helps move the ball and give you more opportunities," Canales stated, emphasizing the comprehensive benefits of a solid running attack.
In an effort to bolster the offensive line and provide better protection for Young, the Panthers signed guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis. These additions are expected to fortify the offensive front, reducing the number of sacks and giving Young more time to develop plays.
Looking Ahead
Last season, the rushing game was primarily led by Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders. While both players exhibited flashes of brilliance, the goal now is to establish a more consistent and formidable ground attack. Canales has repeatedly stressed the importance of this aspect of the game, saying, "It all starts with the run game." The combination of new signings and fresh talent from the draft aims to address the Panthers' glaring weaknesses.
The upcoming season will be crucial for the Panthers and particularly for Bryce Young, as the organization has made significant investments to support his growth and performance. The focus has been clear: build a reliable running game, protect the quarterback, and move the chains more effectively. This holistic approach could be the key to turning around the fortunes of a team that has struggled in recent years.
Only time will tell if these changes will bring the desired turnaround, but there's a sense of cautious optimism surrounding the franchise. Should their strategies yield positive results, the Panthers could see a marked improvement in their standings, making them a team to watch in the coming season.