3 Panthers position groups that must step up at the Bucs in Week 18

Carolina Panthers OL

What a constant theme throughout the season. The lack of blocking, sacks, and pressures allowed, mental errors, deflecting blame, penalties, injuries, and more have plagued the Carolina Panthers offensive line from Day 1.

Simply put, this unit is a disaster zone and has to be addressed as a matter of urgency this offseason. This very well may be the worst offensive line of all 32 teams and one I hope looks drastically different in 2022.

Through 16 games, the Panthers are fourth in sacks allowed, 21st in rushing yards, and first in fan disappointment based on the weekly comments during and after games on social media.

In the last meeting during Week 16, this unit allowed seven sacks and 11 quarterback hits against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during what might be Cam Newton’s final start for the organization.

Now, they must contain Vita Vea, Ndamukong Suh, Jason Pierre-Paul, and a bevy of blitzing linebackers.

My expectations are low for this contest and will be pleasantly surprised if sacks and quarterback pressures combined can be limited to five. Although the presence of BYU product Brady Christensen at left tackle finally brings some reasons for encouragement.