Carolina Panthers secondary, other keys to win at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Red Zone Execution

Twice against Seattle the Panthers were turned away inside the red zone without scoring any points. A turnover on downs early and interception late both left Carolina short and in a tight game points are definitely at a premium. Another close game is expected this week and red zone execution will be critical to the Panthers success.

At times it has seemed as if the new Norv Turner orchestrated offense is unstoppable in space but once defenses are able to tighten up, moving the football becomes increasingly more difficult. If the same happens on Sunday then regaining some confidence in kicker Graham Gano will be important to ensure the team comes away with points of some variety during every trip.

Obviously, seven is more than three but either is better than a turnover on downs – especially in the first half – or any other type of play (interception, fumble or missed field goal) resulting in zero after a successful drive.