4 reasons why the Carolina Panthers can make the 2020 playoffs
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers have a high-octane offense
The term defense wins championships is true to a certain extent. But the Carolina Panthers might have to rely on their supreme offensive weapons to ensure they’re in playoff contention at the business end of the campaign.
Their defense has come on a significant amount since Carolina’s opening game defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders. However, it’s hard not to like the way things are developing on the offensive side of the ball which has been a shining light in their recent progression.
Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is fast becoming one of the NFL’s most heartwarming stories. Things were not easy for the signal-caller before he stepped onto the field after the departure of Cam Newton, but the way he has settled into his new home has been incredibly positive.
It helps that Bridgewater has some outstanding options in the passing game. D.J. Moore and Robby Anderson are arguably the NFL’s best and most surprising wide receiver tandem through five weeks, with Curtis Samuel’s influence also growing.
Mike Davis has been a revelation in the absence of running back Christian McCaffrey, who hasn’t played a down through this winning stretch. There is just no telling how much the Panthers can kick-on when the All-Pro returns, but it will be important for them to maintain balance and not lean too much on the former first-round pick when he is fit to return.