4 critical observations from Sam Darnold’s performance at the Saints

What were some critical observations from Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold’s performance at the New Orleans Saints in Week 17?

An expected move by the Carolina Panthers saw Sam Darnold make his first start since returning from injury at the New Orleans Saints in Week 17. It didn’t take Matt Rhule long to install the signal-caller into the lineup at the expense of Cam Newton against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and even though the former USC star struggled overall, the head coach felt this was the best way for the team to end a dismal run of form.

Trading three draft picks to the New York Jets for Darnold was a major gamble at the time. One that hasn’t paid off and could leave the Panthers back to square one regarding the most important position on the field this offseason.

This was a two-game audition for Darnold – one last chance to prove worthy of at least competing for the starting role again in 2022. As it turned out, Darnold and the Panthers just didn’t get it done. .

With this in mind, here are four critical observations from Darnold’s performance at the Saints in Week 17.

Critical Observation No. 1

Sam Darnold looked composed early

There was a great deal of pressure on Sam Darnold’s shoulders in this one. Even if the Carolina Panthers didn’t have all that much to play for.

The quarterback looked composed right out of the gate, completing multiple passes in a row and leading the Panthers to 10 points from their opening two drives of the contest. Darnold got the ball out quickly, enjoyed solid protection from the offensive line, and made the right decisions distributing the football more often than not.

It was only a start. But this early rhythm was a tremendous confidence boost for Darnold in no uncertain terms.