10 quick thoughts from Carolina Panthers loss at LA Rams in Week 6
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers led after a topsy-turvy half
It was an encouraging start overall from the Carolina Panthers. They were patient on offense, leaned on Christian McCaffrey, and managed to keep the Los Angeles Rams in check over the first quarter to provide hope an upset might be on the cards.
Sadly, they let the initiative slip soon after. Missed tackles, more third-and-long conversions, and almost no risk-taking with P.J. Walker under center allowed the Rams to seize slight control before the pendulum swung again just before the break thanks to a pick-six from Donte Jackson, who atoned for his earlier error in the best possible way.
Christian McCaffrey carried the Carolina Panthers’ offense
After intense trade speculation throughout the week, Christian McCaffrey looked like a man on a mission in Week 6. The running back was tasked with plenty of responsibility early and made a significant impression throughout the game en route to 158 all-purpose yards – almost the entirety of Carolina’s offense.
What this means for McCaffrey’s future in Carolina remains to be seen. But his importance to this team currently cannot be overstated and is something those in power should consider strongly before deciding things one way or another.
Derrick Brown was sensational
It’s hard to find the right words to describe just how good Derrick Brown has been in 2022. The defensive tackle is rapidly becoming the player Carolina thought when they drafted him No. 7 overall in 2020 and he further boosted his credentials with a sensational showing against the Rams.
Brown was a constant menace at the line of scrimmage, having his way with a less-than-stellar offensive line and coming up with some huge plays along the way. If the Auburn product continues in this fashion, then a potential Pro Bowl nod might not be too far behind.