4 silver linings from the Panthers heartbreaking loss at Falcons in Week 8
By Dean Jones
What were the silver linings from another heartbreaking loss for the Carolina Panthers in Week 8 at the Atlanta Falcons?
Of all the defeats suffered by the Carolina Panthers in recent years, this one hurt more than most. The team had a big opportunity to seize control of the NFC South and looked well on course to beat the Atlanta Falcons before a series of errors down the stretch led to their eventual demise.
This was gut-wrenching in no uncertain terms. Carolina led late thanks to a phenomenal touchdown grab from D.J. Moore off a P.J. Walker laser, but a crucial penalty coupled with two misses from kicker Eddy Pineiro meant the Panthers had nothing to show for their efforts.
What comes next for Carolina is uncertain. They now sit at 2-6 through eight weeks and with a high-end draft pick in sight, many fans are calling on the organization to roll over in pursuit of finally landing a franchise quarterback in 2023.
That does appear unrealistic, in all honesty. Sunday’s game hurt beyond measure, but here are four silver linings the Panthers can take from Week 8 at the Falcons.
Silver Lining No. 1
Carolina Panthers have a new RB1
The Carolina Panthers took the difficult decision to trade away Christian McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers. However, it looks like they have a ready-made No. 1 option already on their roster based on D’Onta Foreman‘s outstanding performance in Week 8.
Foreman was the workhorse running back with Chuba Hubbard out through injury. This was a challenge he took on with tremendous determination en route to 118 rushing yards and three touchdowns from 26 carries.
Carolina didn’t come up with the goods late. But that does not detract from Foreman’s exceptional production, which could mean an extension at the end of the season if he continues in the same fashion.