4 critical observations from the Panthers win at Seahawks in Week 14

Carolina Panthers OL continues their great play

The days of bad offensive line play seem like a fond memory. One of the biggest factors in the Carolina Panthers’ victory over the Seattle Seahawks was the play up front by their revamped front five.

Left tackle Ikem Ekwonu, left guard Brady Christensen, center Bradley Bozeman, right guard Austin Corbett and right tackle Taylor Moton have formed a group that should now be considered one of the most formidable offensive lines in the NFL.

During the offseason, general manager Scott Fitterer made a promise to fix the offensive line. The front office did just that with the draft selection of Ekwonu and the signings of Bozeman and Corbett.

Just like that, a once major weakness on the roster is now the MVP of the team as the season winds to a close.

Panthers offensive line coach James Campen had his group ready to go from the jump against Seattle. They were moving opposing defensive linemen off their spots with sheer consistency, creating large rushing lanes for D’Onta Foreman, Chuba Hubbard, and Raheem Blackshear to run through.

The offensive line’s pass protection was steady as well. While Ekwonu gave up an ugly sack to veteran edge rusher Bruce Irvin, he played fairly well throughout with clean pass sets and smooth hands.

It is comforting for many fans to know that the trenches are secured for the coming years ahead. Should the Panthers acquire a rookie quarterback through the NFL Draft, that said individual could be walking into a situation where he had a concrete wall protecting him in the pocket.