4 key takeaways from the Panthers’ loss vs. the Bucs in Week 10
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers struggled in coverage
One of the real problems facing the Carolina Panthers going into the game was just how they were going to cover the exceptional weapons at the Bucs’ disposal. As it turned out, it was something they had difficulty doing for long periods.
That’s not exactly a surprise.
Tampa Bay has an embarrassment of riches in the passing game, but the Panthers didn’t do themselves any favors. The likes of Rasul Douglas and Corn Elder had off days by their high standards so far this season and Donte Jackson was once again significantly hampered by the toe injury that is becoming more of a concern with every passing week.
It’s hurting Jackson and Carolina to the extent that it might just be time to sit him out and just allow the problem to heal without fear of it getting worse.
Mike Evans, Antonio Brown, Chris Godwin, and tight end Rob Gronkowski all had some nice moments during the game, and Tom Brady wasn’t exactly in any great hurry due to a lack of consistent pressure. It seems to be the same problems emerging week after week and it’s clear that big changes need to be made on defense this offseason.