4 keys to victory for the Panthers against the Bucs in Week 2
By Dean Jones
Get off to another fast start
The Carolina Panthers scored on their first three drives against the Raiders. This was a pleasant surprise given their lack of preseason games to build chemistry during an in-game environment and this is a trend that needs to continue throughout the season.
Getting 13 early points on the board that might even have been more wasn’t enough for the Panthers to pick up an opening weekend win. But it did install confidence in an offense that is loaded with playmakers everywhere you look.
Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater grasped the offense superbly, which was no surprise due to his previous relationship with offensive coordinator Joe Brady. The signal-caller also got some premier protection from his line that proved highly beneficial in the grand scheme of things.
There were some timing issues with the wide receiver group on occasions. But this should be ironed out over time and the debut of Robby Anderson was another significant positive to take out of the reverse.
Carolina will need more from their tight end unit in terms of production. And how they use Christian McCaffrey is something else that came in for criticism against the Raiders. However, if the Panthers can get off on the front foot once again in this game, then there is every chance they can stay competitive, at the very least.