10 quick thoughts from the Panthers loss at Ravens in Week 11
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers’ preparation difference
Although the result didn’t go their way, it’s hard to put into words just how better prepared the Carolina Panthers are under Steve Wilks. The difference between now and the first five weeks of the campaign is staggering and something that’s making this operation quickly become a competent football team.
Of course, winning is all that matters. But at the end of the day, this was never going to be a quick fix given the mess Matt Rhule left behind and the changes made in just a few short weeks from Wilks shouldn’t go unnoticed.
Carolina Panthers lost an underrated performer
After an imposing start from the defense, they were handed a blow when Cory Littleton was forced out of the lineup due to an injury in the first quarter. The linebacker has quietly enjoyed a fine season and is coming on a significant amount under Wilks, so hopefully, his ankle problem won’t keep him out for too long.
Littleton looks the part at the second level and his presence was missed despite the Panthers using this opportunity to see more of 2022 fourth-round selection Brandon Smith. Whether this is a trend that continues over their remaining games is another matter.
Carolina Panthers cannot depend on Chuba Hubbard
It was another indifferent outing from Chuba Hubbard. The running back failed to maximize his time on the field, with minimal yards gained on limited touches and yet more suspect blocking in pass protection.
Carolina had a hard time establishing things offensively against an exceptional Baltimore Ravens front seven. Even though Hubbard is still working his way back from injury, the former fourth-round selection’s overall performance left a lot to be desired and only increased doubts about his future beyond the current campaign.