4 ways the Panthers can salvage something from the 2021 season

Carolina Panthers must show growth on offense

Things have been a complete disaster on offense whenever Christian McCaffrey has been out of the lineup. The running back has played just seven games and won’t be seen again this season, so for the coaching staff to still be without any sort of offensive identity is unacceptable.

Joe Brady has been fired as offensive coordinator, which was down to a clash in styles with Matt Rhule. But there appeared to be a much better tempo to play-calling at times with Jeff Nixon against the Atlanta Falcons – particularly during the opening drives of each half.

However, it didn’t take long for the same problems to surface.

Indecisive quarterback play, some dropped passes, and an offensive line that cannot be trusted in crucial moments.

Whether this can alter in a positive fashion over the next four contests is highly debatable. But the Carolina Panthers need to demonstrate some sort of growth to justify Rhule’s decision to go in a different direction.

Cam Newton, P.J. Walker, and perhaps even Rhule himself are all fighting for their futures. Any further regression in the coming weeks could lead to major changes in personnel and those trying to win from the sidelines on game day.

It’s not like things can get much worse. Even if the schedule is about to get extremely difficult.

Carolina might not be harboring any postseason hopes after a torrid run of results, but there is still a lot on the line for many associated with the organization.