Matt Rhule in the pressure cooker
The Carolina Panthers have once again displayed a united front this week. Players have come out in support of head coach Matt Rhule and in Robbie Anderson’s case, even criticized the fanbase that dares to boo such lackluster results after spending their hard-earned dollars to view a poor football product.
This has been prevalent throughout the Rhule era. While he receives ridicule from the national media and former players, the locker room remains confident in the head coach – at least publicly.
However, it’s hard to envisage a scenario where Rhule isn’t running out of time if the Panthers extended their losing streak to 10 games. The former Baylor man was seemingly on the hot seat heading into the campaign, so the pressure cooker could reach exponential levels should things get ugly once again at Bank of America Stadium.
Rhule knows excuses and talk of his process aren’t welcome at present. Improving results is all that matters and with three consecutive home games upcoming, the Panthers are entering a crossroads few weeks that could shape the future of the franchise.
The New Orleans Saints will know full well what an imposing start will to do the atmosphere within the stadium. Unless Rhule and the Panthers are prepared effectively and show a willingness to adapt to different situations, it’ll be another long afternoon.