4 takeaways from the Panthers’ win at the Falcons in Week 5
By Dean Jones
Mike Davis had a big day
It was another standout showing from Mike Davis. The backup running back continues to excel in the absence of Christian McCaffrey and it is going to be immensely interesting to see how the veteran is used once the All-Pro is healthy enough to return.
There is plenty to like about the way Davis carries the football. He is a violent runner between the tackles and has no trouble impacting the passing game when required to further enhance his overall influence.
Considering the uncertainty surrounding Davis heading into training camp, what he is accomplishing on the field is nothing short of magnificent. He is clearly thriving in Joe Brady’s offense and his emergence could be the best thing that’s happened to McCaffrey in the grand scheme of things.
Davis’ level of consistency gives Carolina a security blanket when they want to take their star player out of the firing line. They haven’t missed a beat over the last few weeks without McCaffrey. But it is foolish to say that the Panthers are better off without him going forward.
The former South Carolina standout eventually finished the game with 89 rushing yards from 16 carries. He also caught nine balls for 60 receiving yards and a score, which was another encouraging return from a player who is crushing this opportunity and made all the difference on their crucial fourth-quarter drive.