The Carolina Panthers are facing significant challenges as they head into the new season. With a dismal performance last year, the team found itself at the bottom of the league in several key statistical categories, indicating the need for substantial improvements on both sides of the ball.
Struggles in the Run Game
Last season, the Panthers managed to accumulate a total of 1,769 rushing yards, placing them in the bottom half of the league. Averaging just 4 yards per carry and scoring a league-low of seven rushing touchdowns, the run game was evidently one of their Achilles' heels. Despite the efforts of Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, who led the team in rushing yards, it became clear that bolstering the run game would be crucial for any hope of a turnaround.
Head coach Dave Canales, in his first year at the helm, summed up the team's strategic shift: "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."
A Passing Game in Disarray
The air attack was equally troublesome. The Panthers ranked last in passing yards with only 3,245 yards and were tied for the second-fewest passing touchdowns, managing just 13 over the course of the season. Moreover, their passing first-down percentage was a league-low 25.6%, hindering their ability to sustain drives and keep the chains moving.
A particularly glaring issue was the number of sacks allowed, with Carolina giving up the second-most in the league at a staggering 65. This was detrimental not only to their passing game but also to the overall rhythm and confidence of rookie quarterback Bryce Young, who finished his debut season with a challenging 2-15 record.
Offseason Adjustments
The Panthers' front office took significant steps during the offseason to address their glaring weaknesses. Recognizing the need for a more robust offensive line, the team signed guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis. Additionally, they sought to inject new life into their backfield by drafting running back Jonathon Brooks. These moves signal a clear intent to fortify the trenches and build a more reliable ground game.
"It all starts with the run game," emphasizes Canales, reiterating his belief in establishing a solid foundation on the ground to open up other facets of the offense. This philosophy indicates a back-to-basics approach, aiming to leverage a strong running game to facilitate better play-action opportunities and protect their young quarterback.
A Look Ahead
As the new season approaches, the Panthers are keen to turn the page on a forgettable year. The strategic acquisitions during the offseason and the coaching staff's renewed focus on establishing a consistent run game reflect a concerted effort to rectify their past shortcomings. The performance of Bryce Young will continue to be a focal point, and bolstered by a potentially improved offensive line and a rejuvenated ground attack, the team hopes to provide him with the support necessary to flourish.
While there are numerous areas requiring improvement, the steps taken during the offseason offer a blueprint for potential success. The Panthers' ability to execute on their offseason plans will be closely monitored as they seek to climb back from the depths of the league standings and restore a winning culture in Carolina.
In summary, the upcoming season represents a crucial juncture for the Carolina Panthers. With new leadership at the coaching level and promising acquisitions aimed at addressing glaring weaknesses, there is a cautious optimism that the team can pivot towards a more competitive future. Only time will tell if these strategic changes will bear fruit, but there is no doubt that the Panthers are committed to turning their fortunes around.