3 big surprises from the Panthers win vs. Buccaneers in Week 7

Carolina Panthers’ offense stepped up

One doesn’t have to examine much footage to see where the problems lay on offense. Ben McAdoo‘s anemic system has been heavily criticized – and rightfully so – which left things hanging in the balance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after the Carolina Panthers decided to trade Robbie Anderson and Christian McCaffrey for much-needed draft capital.

McAdoo’s job status was called into question leading up to the contest. Thankfully, the offensive coordinator rose to the challenge to call his best game of the campaign by a considerable margin.

There was confidence across the board that hasn’t been evident all that much in 2022. P.J. Walker looked assured under center and his primary playmakers took advantage of opportunities when they came, especially in red-zone situations.

Again, this was a positive step, but no more than that. What’s important for McAdoo and the Panthers is taking this newfound momentum and putting it to good use with plenty still to play for within a weak-looking NFC South division.

Perhaps losing Anderson and McCaffrey brought an added sense of urgency. Or maybe the extra time for McAdoo and Steve Wilks to come up with a better game plan proved beneficial.

This was the best Carolina’s offense has looked for some time. If the same trend continues moving forward, they might just have a slight window of opportunity.