5 major factors to blame for Carolina Panthers’ loss vs. Bucs Week 16
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers couldn’t get the run game going
Firing Joe Brady was a statement of intent from Matt Rhule, who was keen to implement a run-first approach and set a clearer tone on offense in pursuit of somehow turning things around. Something that the Carolina Panthers haven’t been able to accomplish in the three games after their bye.
Running the football proved to be another stiff task against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are giving up just 87.5 yards per game on the ground this season. Rookie Chuba Hubbard and waiver-wire pickup Ameer Abdullah were non-factors, gaining just 10 rushing yards from eight carries.
To put that into context, Bucs quarterback Tom Brady managed 11.
Cam Newton did put up 42 yards from five touches. But 33 of these came from one play and removing Brady from the equation has not had the desired effect so far.
Of course, this might change next season with Christian McCaffrey back in the team and hopefully, upgrades on the offensive line. However, it doesn’t appear as if Hubbard or Abdullah is ready for starting responsibilities.
Acquiring another back this offseason is something for the Panthers to consider. Especially as McCaffrey can no longer be relied upon from a health standpoint after featuring just 10 times over the last two seasons.