6 studs and duds from Carolina Panthers horrible loss vs. Steelers
By Ricky Raines
Dud No. 2
Carolina Panthers OL
T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith are very good pass rushers. So, it’s not entirely surprising that they both played well and made life difficult for Sam Darnold and the Carolina Panthers.
This was a rough performance from the entire offensive line. The Panthers rushed 16 times for a whopping total of 21 yards, which is simply unacceptable given how reliant Carolina’s been on establishing the run since Steve Wilks took charge.
The offense had a first-and-goal situation from the four-yard line in the fourth quarter and could not punch it in. Brady Christensen looked like he was playing on rollerblades given how effortlessly he was being pushed backward.
Taylor Moton held his own for much of the game but also surrendered a sack. Ikem Ekwonu looked like a rookie, again. This unit has certainly outperformed expectations this season, so one can hope this was just an off day and not an ominous sign of things to come.
Stud No. 3
Eddy Pineiro – Carolina Panthers K
It’s safe to say that Eddy Pineiro was the brightest spot on a dark day. The kicker went 3-for-3 on field goals, including a 52-yarder late in proceedings to enable one last miracle attempt via an onside kick late on.
Tack on the one made extra point attempt to round out his flawless leg day, and Pineiro continues to impress and show resolve following his disaster at the Atlanta Falcons midway through the season.