CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Following a disheartening 42-13 defeat against the New England Patriots, the Carolina Panthers are examining ways to reverse their fortunes. Coach Dave Canales adjusted the team’s schedule on Monday, allowing players some downtime after weightlifting to focus on identifying strategies to improve performance. As the Panthers enter the fourth week of the NFL season with a 1-3 record, the situation mirrors their struggles at the same point last year.
A notable aspect this season is that Canales has not had to bench rookie quarterback Bryce Young, who has shown slight improvement in his passing statistics. Yet, he has yet to demonstrate the ability to carry the team to victory. Injuries have plagued key positions, including the offensive line and receiving corps, but the NFL demands teams to rely on their depth to stay competitive.
Canales and his coaching staff spent Monday reviewing the first four games of the season, particularly the loss in Foxborough, in search of solutions. No significant changes are expected immediately. Canales intends to maintain his current offensive strategies and coaching staff, stating, “We’re trying to make decisions on who can help the team right now.”
Five Changes to Consider for Improvement
To assist in the effort to turn the season around, here are five critical adjustments Canales could implement:
1. **Aggressive Play Calling**
Canales and defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero need to adopt a more aggressive approach. The Panthers currently blitz only 23.4 percent of the time, ranking 20th in the NFL. Notably, they have the lowest sack rate in the league at 1.7 percent, with just two sacks recorded this season. Increasing the blitz rate could help generate pressure, even if it leads to risky one-on-one matchups in the secondary.
2. **Utilize Chuba Hubbard More Effectively**
Running back Chuba Hubbard has proven his potential by averaging 4.1 yards per rush. Despite this, Canales has opted to share carries with Rico Dowdle, who averages 3.0 yards per carry. Hubbard thrives on consistent opportunities to wear down defenses, and the Panthers must prioritize his usage, especially given their current struggles to maintain leads.
3. **Consistency in Offensive Line Choices**
The Panthers have struggled with their offensive line configurations. Matt Rhule’s previous regime had concerns about Brady Christensen‘s arm length for tackling, but he proved his worth as the highest-graded offensive player against the Patriots. Canales should commit to utilizing Christensen in a starting role consistently to bolster the line’s effectiveness.
4. **Incorporate Speed on Offense and Special Teams**
The Panthers appeared sluggish in their recent game, particularly in punt coverage. Injuries to wide receivers David Moore and Dalevon Campbell have exacerbated the issue. Rookie wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. is expected to be activated soon, and his speed could provide the boost the team needs. With Moore sidelined for weeks, Horn’s energy and potential could reinvigorate the offense.
5. **Maximize Defensive Draft Picks**
The time has come for the Panthers to fully integrate their defensive rookies into the game plan. Even with starting edge rushers Pat Jones and D.J. Wonnum potentially returning, Evero should explore ways to involve second-round picks Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen in impactful roles. Additionally, Lathan Ransom, a fourth-round safety, needs more defensive snaps to capitalize on his potential.
As the Panthers prepare for their next matchup, it is crucial for Canales and his coaching staff to implement these adjustments. With a commitment to more aggressive play calling, effective utilization of players, and strategic lineup choices, the Panthers can work toward reversing their current trajectory and striving for a more successful season ahead.
