4 key observations from Sam Darnold’s performance vs. the Bucs
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold is not the guy and not the only problem
As stated previously, Sam Darnold didn’t ask to be traded from the New York Jets. But it appears he’s gone from one toxic environment to another.
Things are not right within the Carolina Panthers. This is a huge disappointment after such a promising start and even though Darnold is clearly not the guy to lead the team long-term, the No. 3 overall selection in 2018 is far from the only problem.
The term accountability has been thrown around plenty where the Panthers are concerned this season. However, there is only one common denominator regarding such an unprepared and underperforming organization.
That, of course, is the head coach.
Matt Rhule’s mishandling of the quarterback situation might end up being his undoing. Darnold and Cam Newton deserve better, in all honesty, with constant switching not exactly a recipe for success at either the NFL or college level.
Obviously, Darnold’s production should be better. Expectations were high surrounding the reclamation project and something he hasn’t lived up to in the grand scheme of things.
The Darnold experiment has failed. However, the Panthers haven’t done their quarterbacks any favors whatsoever this season.