5 key observations from Sam Darnold’s performance at the Texans
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold and D.J. Moore were locked in
The Carolina Panthers have an abundance of talent on offense. Something that Sam Darnold has never had for a consistent period during his NFL career so far.
He certainly hasn’t had a wide receiver with the skill set D.J. Moore brings to the table.
Moore’s off to a hot start in pursuit of his third-straight 1,000-yard receiving season and first Pro Bowl appearance in 2021 and it was evident from very early on that he was going to play a significant role in any success that came Carolina’s way in this one.
Darnold’s blessing relationship with Moore is something that’s mutually beneficial. The signal-caller needs a true No. 1 wideout to prove his doubters wrong, which would also give the Maryland product the first stable presence he’s had under center since arriving in the league.
This chemistry will only improve as the season goes on. Providing the protection improves and the running game remains a stable presence.
Moore finished the game with eight catches from 12 targets for 126 receiving yards. Things might have been even better if Christian McCaffrey’s situation turned out a little better.
This brings me to my next point.