4 promising signs from the Panthers’ win at Washington
By Dean Jones
Fourth down conversions
The Carolina Panthers declared their lack of confidence in kicker Joey Slye in no uncertain terms at Washington. He wasn’t given much in the way of responsibility after missing an extra point early in the contest, which left the coaching staff going for it on fourth down in opposition territory rather than taking their chances with a long field goal.
This is an area in which the Panthers have struggled this season due to questionable play-calling and a lack of conviction on the field. However, they managed to pull it together against a formidable Washington defensive line and successfully gain first downs on two of three attempts.
It might have been a perfect three out of three had it not been for Teddy Bridgewater tripping over his own feet early in the game.
Things were always going to be a work in progress for the Panthers this season.
Fans are extremely impatient in this day and age, so the demand for instant results is always there. But considering how many changes were made across the board this offseason, Carolina is right where they’re supposed to be at this particular stage of their rebuild.
What comes next will be equally as important, to put it mildly. Matt Rhule and his coaching staff have a real job on their hands ensuring progression this offseason and with a new general manager coming into the organization, some big changes to personnel are also on their way.