Initial Thoughts: Panthers Finally Enter the Win Column Against Houston
The energy the offense and crowd had on that final possession provided a potential glimpse into the future
Trailing 13-12 with just over 6 minutes to play, the Carolina offense got the ball back with a chance to win it. The 15-play, 86-yard drive that ensued was absolutely electric.
Big plays made at pivotal moments by the likes of players like Bryce Young, Adam Thielen, and Chuba Hubbard.
A crowd hanging on the edge of their seats, letting their emotions and support be felt every step of the way.
Even a kicker in Eddie Pineiro- who had missed an extra point earlier in the game- remaining stone cold confident during the three (!) game winning field goal attempts due to penalties.
That was a team that absolutely wanted to work together and win, and they absolutely executed when the time came. If that same passion, intensity, and execution can be replicated by the players, coaches, and fans, the future will be very bright in Carolina.
Bryce Young is being sacked too often
Coming into this week, only seven offenses in the league were allowing more than 3 sacks per game.
With the Carolina offense sitting at 3.2 per game before allowing six more today, there's definitely a clear issue in that department.
In terms of modern analysis of the game, sacks are often referred to as a "quarterback stat". This generally refers to the quarterback holding more responsibility over how often he is sacked in comparison to the offensive line.
Now it is not as black and white as "Bryce Young is the reason Bryce Young is hitting the turf so often," but it is worth noting that the stalls the offense have faced may have something to do with it.
Young is a rookie and has plenty of time to figure it out, but it is worth monitoring the situation.
No turnovers!
Not an easy achievement for a team with a brand new coaching staff, helmed by a rookie.
While the aforementioned sacks can function as pseudo-turnovers at times, the ability to keep the ball from going directly to the other team's hands will always be paramount.
This offense is slowly but surely finding its groove one step at a time. Patience is still necessary, but the future is looking bright in terms of consistency and success if this path is followed.
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