6 burning questions Carolina Panthers fans are asking ahead of Week 5

Can the Carolina Panthers turn things around?

Is there still a chance for us to make this bad start turnaround? If so, what immediate change do you think we should make to at least get to a .500 record? Thanks a lot! – Wilson

Wilson returns to the Cat Crave mailbag with another great question!

I think there is still a tiny chance the Carolina Panthers can turn this thing around. However, the schedule, as I’ve mentioned before, is tough going forward. Unless the offense progresses, it could be tough sledding.

I don’t believe an immediate change will help turn things around on the offensive side of the ball. While Sunday was tough to watch, I think after a couple of weeks we could finally see Ben McAdoo’s offense clicking.

I’m certain firing either Matt Rhule or McAdoo will not solve the problems immediately as the team would have to implement a new playbook on just a week’s notice. If either were to be relieved, it would be around the Week 13 bye.

As for any changes at quarterback, a healthy Sam Darnold and P.J. Walker would not fix things as some fans have commented. While Baker Mayfield hasn’t been good, he hasn’t been terrible and he should be given more time to get his feet under him and improve timing.

Once that happens, this could lead to more successful third-down attempts and early down plays in the passing game.

From an optimistic look, the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams are beatable. Both offenses have not impressed though their defenses have looked exceptional, especially DeMeco Ryan’s unit.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are 2-2 and haven’t been playing their best ball so far this season. The Atlanta Falcons are fighting hard, but I don’t think their success can be sustained long-term.

Right now, the passing game is the biggest issue for Carolina. Mayfield’s underwhelming play, lack of creativity on offense, and third downs have been death blows so far. The inconsistent play at the tight end doesn’t help either.

We’ll see if things can get turned around, Wilson. If not, the odds of a top-five selection will climb significantly.