5 key observations from Sam Darnold’s horror show vs. the Eagles
By Dean Jones
An indifferent first half for Sam Darnold
Outside of the touchdown drive, there wasn’t much for Sam Darnold to shout about in the first half. The quarterback didn’t get off to the hot start he’s normally accustomed to, was sacked twice on key third downs, and missed a couple of good opportunities for substantial gains.
Thankfully, the Carolina Panthers defense reverted to type after struggling at the Dallas Cowboys in Week 4. This enabled the home team to take a commanding 15-6 lead into the break, which was thoroughly deserved after keeping Jalen Hurts and company in check throughout.
Things could have been much better for the Panthers had everything clicked a little better offensively. This was Darnold’s worst first-half performance statistically and it really showed in terms of his overall production.
- 10/18 pass completion (55.56%)
- 75 yards
- 1 touchdown
- 1 interception
- 2 sacks
- 62.0 passer rating (ESPN)
The Philadelphia Eagles and their offense weren’t exactly setting the world alight, either. But the Panthers went into the break knowing they could ill-afford the same third-quarter complications that cost them so dear at the Cowboys.