4 things Matt Rhule must get right against the Buccaneers
By Dean Jones
What are some of the things Matt Rhule must get right in order for the Carolina Panthers to secure an unlikely victory in Week 2 against the Buccaneers?
It was a baptism of fire for Matt Rhule during his first game at the helm of the Carolina Panthers.
The former Baylor man has been tasked with leading the Carolina Panthers out of their slump and back into postseason contention at the earliest possible opportunity. This is a stiff challenge even for an individual who has a glowing reputation for building up struggling college programs back to prominence. But Rhule got some harsh lessons in Week 1 regarding just what it takes to succeed at the next level.
Rhule and his roster will have learned plenty from their opening weekend defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders at Bank of America Stadium. There were plenty of positives to take from the clash. But their showing also included some areas of real concern.
Nothing much is expected of the Panthers during the 2020 season. This means that Rhule is getting a free pass of sorts in terms of their eventual record.
However, if they do not show progress as the campaign goes on. Then it will leave more questions than answers ahead of another crucial offseason period next year with more financial resources at their disposal.
Next up for Rhule is a trip to the fancied Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who were also defeated in their Week 1 matchup at the New Orleans Saints. Quarterback Tom Brady will not want to start 0-2 given their preseason expectations. So it promises to be a stern test for Carolina’s young roster.
Here are four things that Rhule must get right in Week 2 if the Panthers want to secure an improbable victory at Raymond James Stadium.