3 things fans want to see from the Carolina Panthers in 2021
By De White
More Touchdowns
Last year, the Carolina Panthers’ offense scored a combined 35 touchdowns – 16 passing and 19 on the ground – during its first year under Matt Rhule, which was mostly without Christian McCaffrey.
Equipped with a new quarterback, the Panthers were thought to have an offense that could compare with some of the better quality teams last year, but that proved alarmingly wrong.
While the team was expected to have a few growing pains, the offense was stop-start and stagnated early in most games. Robby Anderson and D.J. Moore could catch the ball and gain yardage like some of the NFL’s best receivers, but scoring proved to be elusive for both men.
This year, both players return with yet another signal-caller leading the way. Sam Darnold may not be Deshaun Watson, but he is a young player with enough arm strength, athleticism, and experience to make plays in Carolina.
No one is expecting a Tom Brady level of change, but with undoubtedly the best-supporting cast he’s ever had – including the returning McCaffrey – the Darnold-led Panthers could potentially score more than 35 combined touchdowns.
Equipped with Anderson, Moore, David Moore, McCaffrey, incoming back Chuba Hubbard, and big red zone targets Dan Arnold and Terrace Marshall Jr., Darnold should be able to have a success that he’s never achieved with the New York Jets or even in college at USC.
Though it would be easy to point out all the flaws in Darnold’s game, one can’t forget the lack of quality players or adequate coaching during his time at MetLife Stadium.
His best receiver? Currently a Carolina Panther.
His second-best receiver, most prolific running back are all on his new team. Dan Arnold should be an upgrade at the tight spot until Tommy Tremble conceivably takes over.
His best offensive line? Well, that’s to be decided, yet it’s expected.
But the potential and opportunity for great things to happen in Carolina’s offense are immense. So which poison will teams choose to live or die from?