What were some quick thoughts to emerge from the Carolina Panthers () against the New Orleans Saints in Week 3?
The Carolina Panthers had untold pressure on their shoulders entering Week 3 versus the New Orleans Saints. Head coach Matt Rhule’s job status came under the microscope prominently in the lead-up to this divisional clash, although a report from NFL Network insider Ian Rappaport hours before kick-off indicated that the former Baylor man was safe, for now.
Rappaport stated that sources suggest team owner David Tepper is willing to err on the side of patience with Rhule. But the report also highlighted the need for results and performances to improve soon, which those within the organization expect heading into three consecutive home contests.
As it turned out, the Panthers managed to get themselves over the line and finally get their campaign underway with a well-deserved triumph, their first in more than a year in front of the fans at Bank of America Stadium.
With that being said here are 10 quick thoughts that emerged from Carolina’s win against the Saints, which now has them sitting at 1-2 after three games.
Quick Thought No. 1
Carolina Panthers defense provided an early spark
It was a disjointed start on offense for the Carolina Panthers. Fortunately, their defense was in no mood to mess around.
One play, in particular, completely shifted the early momentum. Frankie Luvu ripped the football out of Alvin Kamara’s hands and onto the ground, leaving edge rusher Marquis Haynes free to scoop it up and demonstrate an eye-catching burst for the opening touchdown.
"This is 6 quick"@frankluvu7 x @MarquisHaynes98 💪 pic.twitter.com/Vq3cnO4I3U
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) September 25, 2022
This was Carolina’s first takeaway of 2022. And in all honesty, it couldn’t have arrived at a better time.
Carolina Panthers made things difficult for Jameis Winston early
There was some doubt as to whether or not Jameis Winston would play in Week 3. The quarterback is dealing with a back fracture and ankle problem, which the Carolina Panthers sensed and took full advantage of early.
Defensive coordinator Phil Snow wasn’t afraid to bring the noise and leave a little on Winston to make him uncomfortable. Something that saw the signal-caller become antsy in the pocket and fail to hit his receivers when open.
Carolina’s coverage was also top-notch throughout the first half. Something that saw Winston cut a visibly frustrated figure on the sidelines.
Carolina Panthers benefitted from Saints’ discipline issues
Even when the Saints did pull off big plays in the first half, these were brought back for crucial penalties on two notable occasions that would have been first downs otherwise. The Panthers weren’t complaining, with complications such as these something they succumb to more often than not.
Carolina will take anything they can get right now. This lack of discipline from New Orleans gave the Panthers all the motivation needed to pull ahead – especially on the defensive side of things.
An almost flawless first half from the Carolina Panthers
Things still looked a little disjointed on offense. However, this was an almost flawless first half from the Panthers ad a far cry from what fans witnessed over the first two weeks.
Matt Rhule‘s men went into the half-time interval with a deserved lead. Aside from New Orlans’ final drive that included a deep bomb to rookie wideout Chris Olave, there wasn’t all that much to be concerned about.
If the offense figures things out, the Panthers will be all systems go.
Frankie Luvu led by example
Even though the Carolina Panthers endured a rough opening to the campaign, one of their shining lights was once again prominent in Week 3. Frankie Luvu continues to make a name for himself as an exceptional second-level defender, providing the inspiration and energy that everyone on defense seemed to feed off from start to finish.
Luvu was nothing short of outstanding throughout. The Washington State product is thriving with additional responsibilities and is now an integral part of Carolina’s plans moving forward.
Carolina Panthers special teams made an impact
Chris Tabor seems to be having a positive impact on special teams. This was a significant complication for the Panthers under Chase Blackburn and the production increase was evident throughout their game against the New Orleans Saints.
Whether it was the blocked field goal, outstanding punting from Johnny Hekker, or simply becoming more efficient in coverage, there was a lot to like about this critical area of play.
Laviska Shenault Jr. turned the tide
Just when it looked like the Saints might be mounting a comeback, Laviska Shenault Jr changed all that in an instant. The wide receiver made the most out of a major opportunity in the fourth quarter, making two people miss en route to a 67-yard score that tipped the scales back in Carolina’s favor.
There was a huge level of intrigue about seeing Shenault for the first time since his trade from the Jacksonville Jaguars. Hopefully, the former second-round pick can further integrate himself into Ben McAdoo’s system in the coming weeks.
Carolina Panthers’ defense stayed aggressive
Whether the Laviska Shenault Jr. touchdown changed things or not is debatable. But the Carolina Panthers deserve credit for staying aggressive on defense and taking advantage of big plays when they presented themselves.
Phil Snow had no trouble dialing up blitzes featuring defensive backs. Something that brought a sack for Jeremy Chinn and a tipped ball from Jaycee Horn that was brilliantly brought in by Derrick Brown.
Carolina’s defense was superb. All they need now is the offense to finally start putting better consistency together.
Another indifferent day for Baker Mayfield
The result was more important than anything else. But it was another indifferent outing for quarterback Baker Mayfield in Week 3.
Mayfield still doesn’t look entirely comfortable within the system and there remains a lack of trust with his offensive line. The Oklahoma product also missed some wide-open receivers on occasion, but he was at least careful with the football late on to avoid any unnecessary complications.
Things won’t get any easier for Mayfield in terms of opposition in the weeks ahead. So huge improvements are needed.
Carolina Panthers finally get over the hump
The last time Carolina tasted success at Bank of America Stadium was September 19, 2021. Coincidentally, that was also against the New Orleans Saints.
It’s been a long period since the Panthers got themselves over the hump. Their last regular-season triumph came in Week 10 last season at the Arizona Cardinals, so the urgency to get one over on their NFC South rivals was evident to avoid the house falling in further.
There will be nobody more relieved than Matt Rhule right now. This is a burden that’s been heavy to bear, but whether it’s the catalyst behind improved long-term results is another matter.
For now, fans should celebrate. Lord knows it’s been too long.