The Carolina Panthers have navigated a challenging season, as reflected in several key statistics and outcomes that highlight both struggles and glimmers of potential. Under the leadership of rookie head coach Dave Canales, the team is determined to turn things around, built on the foundational belief in strengthening their ground game.
A Difficult Season for Bryce Young
Proclaimed as a promising talent, Bryce Young faced a tough rookie season, finishing with a 2-15 record. The overall team performance underscored the challenges he faced, including a lackluster passing game. The Panthers recorded a league-low 3,245 passing yards and tied for second-fewest passing touchdowns with just 13. In addition, their passing first-down percentage was a mere 25.6%, placing them at the bottom of the league.
Ground Game Blues
The Panthers also struggled to make a significant impact in their rushing attack. Amassing 1,769 yards placed them in the bottom half of the NFL for rushing yards. Although their average of 4 yards per carry is respectable, it was not enough to boost their overall performance. With only seven rushing touchdowns, the Panthers had the league’s lowest total in this critical metric of offensive efficiency.
Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders led the team in rushing yards last season, but the unit was far from the powerhouse the team needed it to be.
The Defensive Struggle
On the other side of the ball, the defense had difficulties as well. The Panthers allowed the second-most sacks in the league, giving up 65. This level of pressure on the opposing quarterbacks was a rare bright spot for the team, yet it did not translate into overall success.
Offseason Moves to Strengthen the Roster
Recognizing the need for major changes, the Panthers were active in the offseason. A significant step was drafting running back Jonathon Brooks, signaling a commitment to bolstering their ground game. Additionally, they made strategic signings by adding guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, aiming to solidify the offensive line and provide better protection and support for both the run and pass game.
Coach Canales emphasized the importance of these moves, stating, "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."
Building the Future
Despite the struggles, the vision for the Panthers’ future is becoming clearer. Canales has expressed a strong belief in the foundational role of the running game in building a successful team. "It all starts with the run game," he asserted, encapsulating his strategic approach moving forward.
The recent additions and draft choices signify a calculated effort to address the core issues that plagued the team throughout the season. While the statistics paint a stark picture of the challenges faced, the changes suggest a path aimed at restoring the Panthers to competitiveness.
In summary, while the Panthers’ previous season was marked by substantial difficulties, the groundwork is being laid for potential improvement. With strategic acquisitions and a renewed focus on the run game, the team hopes to translate these efforts into tangible success on the field. Under Dave Canales' leadership, the Panthers are poised to rebuild, with an eye on leveraging their strengths and addressing their weaknesses as they look to the upcoming season.