5 major factors behind Panthers’ shock win at the Cardinals in Week 10

(Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports) Christian McCaffrey
(Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports) Christian McCaffrey /
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(Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports) Donte Jackson /

Carolina Panthers made turnovers count

One of the more frustrating elements to the Carolina Panthers’ performances over recent weeks has been the inability to make turnovers count. The defense remains one of the NFL’s best – but the offense simply wasn’t doing enough with Sam Darnold under center to take advantage of countless opportunities.

That all changed at the Arizona Cardinals.

Phil Snow’s unit was once again outstanding, which is in keeping with the way they’ve risen in 2021 so far. But this time, the Panthers managed to turn takeaways into points.

The difference this made cannot be underestimated. And if it continues over the next seven games, Carolina might be in with a shot of securing a playoff spot.

In all honesty, the offense doesn’t even have to be that great. Such is the standard of things on the defensive side.

Capitalizing on chances is all the Panthers need.

This was a massive statement and one in keeping with the move to bring back Cam Newton. The Panthers are confident they can win now and make some noise in the postseason, which is a far cry from the previous six games where they emerged victoriously just once.