4 key observations from Panthers QB Matt Corral’s second pro outing
By Luke Gray
Has Matt Rhule stunted Matt Corral’s early Carolina Panthers development?
One big worry with the Carolina Panthers focusing so heavily on the quarterback competition between Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield is the adverse effect this could have on the development of rookie Matt Corral.
Unfortunately for Panthers fans, the early signs are that Corral is behind the other rookie signal-callers in this class. We saw last week that Sam Howell seemed more accomplished so far and Bailey Zappe outperformed the No. 94 overall selection at Gillette Stadium.
Even the way Matt Rhule split the reps – having P.J. Walker and Corral playing alternate quarters – meant that both players were devoid of any rhythm. We also saw the first-year-pro line up behind a much inferior offensive line.
While Walker had the expected starting left-side tandem of Ikem Ekwonu and Brady Christensen to lean upon, Corral had the likes of Cam Erving and Dennis Daley protecting his blind side. Something that played a role in the Lisfranc injury that will keep him out for months.
We saw the offensive line struggles caused Corral to go down late in the contest when guard Deonte Brown – who is on the roster bubble – was bull rushed into the quarterback’s lap after the center stepped onto his foot.
Rhule has shown a lack of player development during his tenure as head coach and this trend seems to be continuing with Corral.