10 quick thoughts from Carolina Panthers loss vs. Cardinals in Week 4

Carolina Panthers CB Donte Jackson had a tough outing

Even though Donte Jackson was also dealing with an injury problem, it hasn’t prevented the cornerback from participating over the last two contests. Therefore, the Carolina Panthers and its loyal fanbase have every right to expect more from the former second-round selection.

Jackson had a rough game in coverage and was exposed by quarterback Kyler Murray often. Not exactly what everyone had in mind regarding a player that was allocated a lucrative contract extension this offseason in preference to keeping All-Pro Stephon Gilmore around.

Carolina Panthers have a Baker Mayfield problem

The Panthers have a Baker Mayfield problem. A complete lack of execution and inability to generate any sort of positive momentum during the contest has frustrations rapidly growing where the quarterback is concerned.

Fans made no secret of their thoughts by booing Mayfield and the Panthers off the field late on. With Sam Darnold set to return from injury in the not-too-distant future, the leash is tightening around the former Oklahoma star and unless things improve, then head coach Matt Rhule could be tempted to revert back to the man he acquired from the New York Jets in 2021.

Matt Rhule remains under significant pressure

If last weekend’s win over the New Orleans Saints provided some brief respite for Rhule, the pressure is well and truly on again right now. Another inept performance in front of their home crowd sees the Panthers sitting at 1-3 and there appears to be no light at the end of the tunnel.

Something is clearly amiss within the organization. Although there is a united front from players and staff alike in front of the media, one cannot help but wonder just how frustrating things are getting for a franchise that looks set for another high-end draft pick in 2023.

With games upcoming against the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Rams, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, things are unlikely to improve anytime soon. Just what it means for Rhule is anyone’s guess at this juncture.