What were some major observations from Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold’s performance against the Denver Broncos in Week 12?
This was the moment that Sam Darnold probably never thought would arrive. Things looked bleak for the quarterback after the Carolina Panthers drafted Matt Corral and secured the services of Baker Mayfield via trade from the Cleveland Browns this offseason, but injuries and poor performance gave the signal-caller a second chance.
There wasn’t much belief that Darnold could improve matters on offense in Week 12 against the Denver Broncos. The former USC star’s inconsistencies under center are well documented, but this unexpected turn of events was an opportunity the player simply couldn’t afford to waste.
As it turned out, Darnold’s return couldn’t have gone much better as the Panthers secured a third-straight victory on home soil. And in all honesty, it was pretty comfortable from start to finish.
With that being said, here are four major observations from the performance of Darnold versus the Broncos at Bank of America Stadium.
Major Observation No. 1
Sam Darnold grew in stature
It was a tentative start from Sam Darnold, which isn’t surprising when one considers he’s been missing from the lineup for so long. But the signal-caller grew in stature as the contest progressed and rarely looked troubled despite the Denver Broncos boasting one of the league’s best defenses heading into the clash.
This would have been a tremendous confidence boost for Darnold. One that’s earned him an extended stay under center following the Carolina Panthers’ bye week.
Sam Darnold benefitted from improved OL
It’s been refreshing to see such improvements across the offensive line this season. The Carolina Panthers made some wise investments in key positions during free agency and the 2022 NFL Draft, which has brought a remarkable turnaround in fortunes from a group that is among the league’s most progressive.
This was also the best offensive line Sam Darnold’s ever worked behind. Something that benefitted the quarterback enormously upon his return to competitive action.
Darnold wasn’t sacked once and was rarely under pressure as Carolina’s protection won their individual trench battles convincingly. This is something the USC product has yet to experience throughout his career and enabled a smooth transition back into starting responsibilities.
The Panthers also leaned on the running game heavily as D’Onta Foreman bounced back after a disappointing performance at the Baltimore Ravens. Everything fell into place for Darnold, who didn’t look overawed by the magnitude of the challenge at any stage for good measure.
It’s worth the Panthers examining what Darnold can do over a consistent period behind a top-notch offensive line. If progress continues and Carolina gets more wins on the board, it might alter his career trajectory along the way.
Sam Darnold was efficient
One of the biggest criticisms of Sam Darnold throughout his NFL career is suspect decisions and costly turnovers. The quarterback’s long-term future is hanging in the balance as a result, but Sunday’s showing against the Denver Broncos was an efficient display of what the player could bring to this offense moving forward.
The Carolina Panthers didn’t ask too much from Darnold. This was always going to be a scheme dependent on running the football and putting the signal-caller in manageable situations, which Ben McAdoo was able to accomplish thanks in no small part to another outstanding outing from D’Onta Foreman.
Darnold was efficient, didn’t force the issue at any stage, and made big throws when required. More importantly, the No. 3 overall selection in 2018 played turnover-free football to lead the Panthers to another eye-catching victory in front of their fans.
It wasn’t perfect. Darnold and the offense left some points on the field after failing to finish off drives, but this was a positive performance all things considered – something he can definitely build upon down the stretch.
The Panthers already confirmed Darnold will be under center at the Seattle Seahawks, so the bye week is coming at a good time. This allows the fifth-year-pro to gain additional chemistry with his weapons and communication with his offensive line in pursuit of hitting the ground running in Week 14 and beyond.
Sam Darnold did enough
The Carolina Panthers didn’t need miracles from Sam Darnold on his first game back. Their defense was relentless once again and a decent running attack set the tone throughout, which is exactly what interim head coach Steve Wilks wanted.
Darnold did enough, managed the game well, and ensured the Panthers got their fourth win of the season with minimal fuss. This puts them at 3-3 under Wilks, whose claims to become Matt Rhule’s permanent successor are growing by the day.
When the final whistle blew, Darnold had completed 57.89 percent of his passes for 164 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions, and a creditable 103.8 passer rating. He also demonstrated impressive improvisation to jump on his own goal-line fumble and roll into the end-zone at an important stage of the contest.
Much will depend on how Wilks perceived his performance levels, but it would be a surprise if the Panthers made another change at quarterback after Week 14. Continuity has been sorely missing under center and although Darnold has undeniable flaws, this is the best option Carolina has right now.
More might be required at the Seattle Seahawks or against two NFC South rivals later on. However, if Darnold can react to different situations and become a trusted game manager, then the Panthers can finish the season positively.