4 major positives for the Carolina Panthers entering Week 4 vs. Cardinals
By Dean Jones
Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers RB
Although Christian McCaffrey looked fresh and explosive throughout the preparation period, there remained some concern about how the running back would fare given his recent injury problems. The running back’s usage might have altered so far, but that does not detract from what an integral part of the Carolina Panthers he is after catching the eye through three weeks.
After receiving criticism for under-utilizing McCaffrey in Week 1, the Panthers made him their focal point ever since. Something that was almost a necessity considering how Baker Mayfield isn’t clicking with his primary pass-catchers right now.
McCaffrey is elusive, patient, and capable of breaking off for big yardage whenever he touches the football. The former first-round selection has back-to-back games of more than 100 rushing yards and more importantly, there doesn’t appear to be anything too serious to worry about on the health front.
It’s a long season, so anything can happen. However, offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo seems to be finding the right balance where McCaffrey is concerned, although getting him more involved in the passing game would be prudent in the coming weeks.
McCaffrey is joint-fourth in rushing alongside Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. A solid foundation from which to build and much-needed after so much frustration.