Panthers: Turner to operate offense from press box

Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Norv Turner is likely to call plays from the press box in 2018…

The Carolina Panthers replaced offensive coordinator Mike Shula with Norv Turner during the offseason. After initially indicating there would be no changes for his coaching staff, Ron Rivera enters 2018 with a new coordinator on offense, defense and special teams.

The turnover is a bit dramatic, even for the NFL, but expectations remain high for the Panthers following an offseason filled with change. Quarterback Cam Newton is being surrounded by dynamic play makers who have the ability to contribute both through the air and on the ground.

Carolina drafted wide receiver D.J. Moore with their first pick while adding veteran Torrey Smith to also bolster a relatively young receiving corps. Second year running back Christian McCaffrey is expected to see an increased workload and the Panthers added C.J. Anderson to replace Jonathan Stewart.

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Finding some help along the offensive line has been a concern following the departure of guard Andrew Norwell and a recent injury to starting tackle Daryl Williams. Regardless, Rivera and Turner should find an answer for each soon.

Once the personnel is settled, orchestrating the entire group to properly execute a game plan on Sunday will be key. Numerous times throughout Shula’s tenure as the Panthers offensive coordinator the unit appeared out of sync.

Not necessarily from an execution stand point, but in terms of communication. Far too often Newton was forced to take a time out when it appeared the play call was delayed in being transmitted to the group on the field.

This occurred following first downs, big gains and even after the two-minute warning – times when the offense has a little more freedom from which to operate and typically a few extra seconds to get organized.

Teams and coaches have to determine what works best for their particular situation as some coordinators prefer to be on the field and others well above in the press box. Both locations have advantages and disadvantages to their operational methods but finding what works best and which the personnel are most comfortable with is key.

Turner has coached for longer than any player on the team has been alive – even Mike Adams and Thomas Davis. In 43 years he’s been responsible for virtually every offensive position and even some on defense. Serving as both an offensive coordinator and head coach at the NFL level, Turner has operated from both locations.

When the 2018 season kicks off, it is expected Turner will be in press box. In an interview posted on the team website, Turner addressed the question of press box or field and offered the following response.

"“Well the way we operate it, or have operated with me and Scott, Ron and I had these conversations, I’ve been upstairs, and he’s been on the field and obviously Matsko is on the field, Pete Hoener is on the field, Jimmy Skipper is on the field so we have great leadership down on the field and I can get away from all the craziness. I’ve had my share of being on the sideline.”"

Having worked with Rivera in the past and having his experience, Turner knows what will work best for him and his group. Hopefully, it results in better communication and transfers into the Panthers getting to keep their timeouts for better use.

Time will tell as Carolina kicks off the regular season in just over a month.