3 Panthers position groups that must step up at the Dolphins in Week 12

Carolina Panthers coaching staff

One could be forgiven for feeling this is like a constant spiral with no end in sight.

Matt Rhule did well for himself at the collegiate ranks, but something has not transitioned over into his NFL tenure. Penalties abound, mental mistakes are constant, inconsistent play is becoming the norm, and excuses are piling up.

David Tepper paid Rhule rather handsomely to leave Baylor and replace Ron Rivera. However, he has not lived up to the expectations of the fanbase and what the billionaire owner probably hoped for.

Most weeks, he is outcoached and looks a little lost.

Rhule’s in-game management and adjustments do not make a difference. Clock management feels like a high school game at times and the flat play after halftime is becoming predictable and laughable.

In Year 2 of a seven-year contract, it is too early for Rhule to be on the hot seat. But that will not stop fans from groaning and voicing their displeasure to the team with a 10-17 record thus far under the new regime.

If the remainder of the season is not an improvement, Rhule will be on a very short leash going into 2022, which will quickly become a prove-it year to keep his job not even halfway through his contract with the Carolina Panthers.

The season has been a disappointment filled with small glimmers of hope. Each unit has had standout performances, but never collectively in the same game. The Panthers must limit mental errors and execute at a high level to keep the push for the playoffs alive.