4 Panthers players that must perform at the Seahawks in Week 14

Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB

Sam Darnold‘s surprising performance during his first start of 2022 against the Denver Broncos ended up being the final nail in Baker Mayfield’s coffin. The former Oklahoma star came back from the bye week and immediately asked for his release, which gives him another opportunity on the Los Angeles Rams rather than becoming No. 3 on the Carolina Panthers quarterback depth chart.

This is a testament to Darnold’s determination and ability to learn away from the team. The signal-caller spent a considerable period speaking to defensive players about what he could potentially do better and seized his chance in the best way possible when called upon.

There was more efficiency in Darnold’s production. The USC product was also in complete command of the offense pre-snap, which was essential against a Denver Broncos defense that’s performing at an extremely high level.

Whether Darnold can keep this up is the big question. We’ve seen on countless occasions how indecisive the player can become when chasing games, which could cause untold complications at Lumen Field – one of the league’s loudest NFL stadiums.

The outlook is relatively positive for Darnold this weekend. But the jury is still out as to whether or not his presence can help or hinder the Panthers if things get tight.

Darnold seems a little different this time around. And gaining victory at the Seahawks would be a signature moment of his time in Carolina beyond all doubt.