5 major factors behind Panthers’ shock win at the Cardinals in Week 10
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers RB Christian McCaffrey set the tone
If the Carolina Panthers blended Christian McCaffrey back into the lineup slowly against the New England Patriots, then it was more of a usual workload for the running back in Week 10.
The All-Pro was at the heart of everything good on offense throughout a dominant first-half performance. Although there were some slight hamstring concerns as the game went on, there didn’t appear to be much worry coming from McCaffrey, who seemingly refused to take his helmet off and wanted back in the game despite the score.
This is a testament to his mentality. Even if the Panthers do need to save McCaffrey from himself at times.
Carolina needs McCaffrey playing at this sort of level done the stretch. They simply cannot afford the former first-round pick to miss any more time.
Seeing the Stanford product lining up in the backfield with Cam Newton was unbelievable. And an obvious nightmare for the Cardinals’ defense.
It’s only going to become more of a complication when Newton starts. This is a dynamic tandem that offers so much and considering the esteem in which each is held across the league, the future could be incredibly bright if everything clicks into place.