The Carolina Panthers have had a tumultuous season, marked by struggles on both sides of the ball. A glance at last year's statistics paints a clear picture of the uphill battle faced by the rookie head coach Dave Canales and his team. The Panthers' running game, passing game, and protection issues are areas that fans and analysts alike hope will see significant improvement in the upcoming season.
Rushing Woes
The Panthers fought hard but remained in the bottom half of the league in rushing yards, accumulating a modest 1,769 yards. With an average of 4 yards per carry, they struggled to capitalize on opportunities, which was glaringly evident in their league-low seven rushing touchdowns. Last season, Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders carried the team’s rushing responsibilities, but the Panthers' efforts to bolster their ground game during the offseason hint at a strategy to reshape their offensive dynamics.
Canales, who is stepping into his role as head coach with a sense of optimism, emphasized the importance of the run game to the overall success of the team. "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. His efforts in the draft, including picking running back Jonathon Brooks, underscore his commitment to revitalizing the Panthers' offensive strategy.
Struggling in the Air
Offensive challenges extended beyond rushing, with the Panthers occupying the last spot in passing yards, amassing only 3,245 yards. They also tied for the second-fewest passing touchdowns with a mere 13. Their passing first-down percentage, a critical statistic for sustaining drives, was the lowest in the league at 25.6%. These figures reflect a passing game in dire need of improvement, particularly with rookie quarterback Bryce Young finishing the season with a 2-15 record.
Offensive Line Adjustments
Recognizing the need for better protection and blocking to support both the running and passing games, the Panthers made significant moves in the offseason. The addition of guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis is a testament to their focused effort to strengthen the offensive line. These acquisitions are expected to provide Bryce Young with better protection and create more effective running lanes for the backfield.
Looking Forward
Dave Canales's philosophy is clear: "It all starts with the run game." This belief is set to be the foundation upon which the Panthers build their resurgence. The integration of new talent like Jonathon Brooks and the bolstering of their offensive line indicate a strategic shift, one that hopes to see a marked improvement in performance.
The Panthers have considerable ground to cover in their quest to rise from the lower ranks of the NFL. While the past season's statistics highlight significant issues, the changes in coaching strategy, player acquisitions, and a renewed focus on fundamentals suggest a positive direction for the team. If Canales's plans materialize on the field, the Panthers might just find themselves transforming their rushed aspirations into tangible accomplishments.