The Carolina Panthers, a team striving to regain its former glory, have faced notable challenges over the past season. With statistics from last year painting a sobering picture, Panthers fans are eagerly looking for a turnaround. Despite struggles in both the running and passing game, the offseason has ushered in changes that aim to elevate the team's performance.
Rushing Woes and Prospects
Last season, the Panthers were among the league's strugglers in rushing yards, managing only 1,769 yards. Averaging a modest 4 yards per carry, the ground game yielded a league-low seven rushing touchdowns. Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, the team's rushing leaders, were often stifled, reflecting a need for improvement in this critical area.
However, the dawn of the new season brings hope, buoyed by strategic offseason acquisitions. The Panthers' decision to draft running back Jonathon Brooks indicates a clear intent to bolster their rushing attack. Adding to this is the signing of guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, who are expected to fortify the offensive line and carve out better running lanes for the backfield.
Newly appointed head coach Dave Canales is optimistic about these changes. "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 remarked. His philosophy underscores the belief that a strong run game can catalyze overall offensive improvement. "It all starts with the run game," he reiterated, emphasizing its importance.
Passing Struggles and Adjustments
While the rushing game faced its set of hurdles, the Panthers' passing game was arguably in dire straits. Ranking last in the league with 3,245 passing yards and tying for the second-fewest passing touchdowns at 13, the air attack struggled to take flight. The passing first-down percentage stood at a league-low 25.6%, further highlighting inefficiencies that hampered offensive drives.
The Panthers' vulnerability to defensive pressure was stark, with the team enduring the second-most sacks in the league at 65. This statistic underscores not only protection issues but potentially decision-making struggles on the part of rookie quarterback Bryce Young, who finished with a 2-15 record in his debut season.
Canales, stepping into his role with clear objectives, recognizes the pressing need to shield his quarterback and establish a more dynamic offensive strategy. The addition of capable guards and a fresh backfield option in Brooks reflects a multifaceted approach to relieving pressure on Young and enhancing the passing game.
Hope Springs from the Offseason
As the Panthers gear up for the upcoming season, the sense of anticipation is palpable. The strategic choices made during the offseason suggest the team is keenly aware of its shortcomings and is actively working towards rectifying them. The blend of experienced and young talent on the roster aims to breathe new life into both the running and passing games.
With Dave Canales at the helm, Panthers fans can look forward to witnessing whether these changes will translate into improved performance on the field. Canales's confident outlook and clear strategic focus offer a promising sign that the team is moving in the right direction. If the planned improvements take hold, the Panthers could very well be on their way to leaving last season’s struggles in the rearview mirror.