4 ways the Panthers can win without Christian McCaffrey in Week 4

Carolina Panthers must get Baker Mayfield going

Should Christian McCaffrey fail to shake off his thigh problem in time for Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals, then this put the onus squarely on the shoulders of Baker Mayfield to lead the Carolina Panthers. A task that the quarterback hasn’t yet proven capable of over his first three contests.

Mayfield’s erratic production has come with nothing more than a few flashes of greatness. Something just isn’t clicking, although placing all the blame his way would be foolish within a bland scheme that’s not doing the Panthers offense any favors whatsoever.

We’ve seen things completely unravel without McCaffrey over the previous two seasons. If the same were to occur again, then there’s little chance of Matt Rhule progressing his team effectively.

The Panthers have enough experience in coping without McCaffrey. Even though losing the league’s best dual-threat running back would be a bitter blow for the entire organization.

Getting Mayfield in an early rhythm would be critical in this scenario. The Arizona Cardinals aren’t blessed with the greatest secondary despite the presence of Budda Baker, so this represents an outstanding opportunity for the Oklahoma product to get his season on track.

It would be more difficult if McCaffrey wasn’t alongside him in the backfield. But not impossible.