4 key observations from Panthers joint practices with Patriots Day 2

Carolina Panthers have a “really good plan” at QB

It was another joint practice that inevitably came with Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield splitting reps. The Carolina Panthers have kept the same format throughout the preparation period so far, with head coach Matt Rhule refusing to name a starter once again after the session came to a conclusion.

Carolina’s offense looked much more in sync on Thursday. Mayfield and Darnold both came away with some highlight-worthy plays, although the USC product was picked off three times during various drills.

When prompted about the upcoming quarterback decision, Rhule stated that there was a “really good plan” in place. Just what that decision is hasn’t been confirmed, but it would be a major bombshell if Mayfield wasn’t under center against the Cleveland Browns in Week 1.

Rhule has been criticized for his mismanagement of the most important position in football since taking over from Ron Rivera. Any further bad judgment calls will likely spell the end for the former Baylor man, one suspects.

Mayfield has outperformed Darnold more often than not. His emergence as a locker room leader is another positive working in his favor.

The decision seems obvious to many. But considering Rhule’s previous track record of pro quarterback evaluation, fans are right to be nervous until something is rubber-stamped.