3 things fans want to see from the Carolina Panthers in 2021

Playoffs or bust for the Carolina Panthers?

The greatest divide between fans of the Carolina Panthers appears more obvious. Should the team be all in on contending or focused on improving on last season’s success and failures?

Whereas some reasonably expect the team to improve on its 5-11 campaign with a retooled roster, others have been pretty adamant about the team’s chances to not only make the playoffs but to actually win and contend.

Now, to shoot for the postseason isn’t too big of a stretch and four or five more wins could definitely do it. But can the team manage a 10 win season?

The talent to win is definitely there, but it’s up to Matt Rhule, Joe Brady, and Phil Snow to put the pieces together and create a successful plan during every game. That could be tough regardless of the veterans acquired.

Injuries happen, age and decline take place, and there isn’t a ton of quality playoff experience on the team.

There isn’t much experience on the offensive side of the ball, almost none for the coaches, and a moderate amount throughout the defense for the roster to lean on.

So instead of gunning for premature success so soon, maybe initially the team could lean on its veterans to focus on improving first and foremost. The goal for every rebuilding organization in the second year is progress, and the Panthers are no different.

If the team were to develop so much that the playoffs are within reach, then all credit to Scott Fitterer, Rhule, and their players for achieving what many thought they couldn’t. But if Carolina were to win just two or three more games than last year, then that would be okay, too.

Overall, going 5-11 in Rhule’s first year was still pretty impressive, and it could’ve been better had they come through in close games. But progress is a process and setting lofty goals too early could damage what’s been made in a short span of time.

Let them continue to improve, let the players and coaches build a connection and confidence within one another, and give them time to grow into potential postseason contenders.

Success is coming for the Carolina Panthers, it began last year, and the hope is to continue for years to come. So let’s continue to improve, compete, and sustain a level of success that championship teams fight for.