4 ways the Carolina Panthers can improve on offense in 2021
By Dean Jones
Red zone offense
The Carolina Panthers had absolutely no trouble getting down to the red zone in 2020. What they did inside the 20-yard-line was less impressive.
They found it difficult to convert strong field position into touchdowns, recording just a 50.88 percent success rate when it came to entering the end zone. They were one of the league’s worst-ranked teams in this important statistic and unless it changes next time around, it’s going to make things that much more difficult.
Offensive coordinator Joe Brady will have learned plenty from his first year calling plays at the next level. He’ll be the first to tell you that his decisions were a little on the naive side at times, so there could be some real strides made if the scheme adjusts accordingly.
The Panthers also have plenty of red-zone weapons that can make a difference. Christian McCaffrey’s return to health will be crucial in this regard, with rookie wide receiver Terrace Marshall Jr. providing Sam Darnold with another big body that has no trouble catching under pressure.
Another notable arrival that shouldn’t go overlooked is Dan Arnold. The tight end has a significant amount going for him and has proven a real asset at the business end of the field during his career. Providing he can generate the trust of the coaching staff, it would be a huge surprise if his physical attributes weren’t utilized consistently.
The bar isn’t exactly high on last season’s efforts, but things should take a positive step forward in 2021.