4 ongoing positives for the Carolina Panthers under Steve Wilks

Carolina Panthers have belief again

With many fans checked out and focused on the 2023 NFL Draft before Steve Wilks galvanized the Carolina Panthers, Sunday’s win at the Seattle Seahawks seems to have everyone pulling in the same direction once again.

The talk of tanking is gone. Replaced by a cautious sense of optimism that the Panthers can catch Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers en route to an NFC South title.

Considering what transpired earlier this season, it would be a turnaround of epic proportions if Wilks pulled it off. This was always a talented team, but Matt Rhule’s mismanagement and no consistent presence at the quarterback spot meant a series of underachievements before his firing.

Coaching matters. One only has to look at how efficient Sam Darnold is becoming under Wilks to see that after all hope seemed lost just one season after his high-profile trade from the New York Jets.

Wilks has restored pride and belief across the organization. From the most pessimistic fan to the players fighting tooth and nail for their new head coach, it’s a collective effort and one that could see bigger things coming in the not-too-distant future.

If the same trend continues over Carolina’s remaining four games, then team owner David Tepper’s decision to remove the interim tag will be an easy one. And many believe Wilks has already done enough to make his dreams come true.