4 critical observations from the Panthers’ dominant win vs. Lions

Sam Darnold’s best game as Carolina Panthers QB1?

A player who has deserved immense credit in his four games as a starter is Sam Darnold, who looks like a new man compared to the one we saw struggle during the 2021 season. The perfect storm of a dominant Carolina Panthers run game and a competent offensive line once again propelled the quarterback to another outstanding performance.

Darnold finished the game 15-of-22 for 250 passing yards, one touchdown, zero interceptions, and a passer rating of 121.4, which is a career-high. The signal-caller also added six carries for 19 rushing yards and a score.

For the first time in his career, Darnold has gone four straight games without a turnover and is arguably playing the most consistent football since being drafted in 2018.

Darnold once again played efficiently, not putting the ball in harm’s way at any point and for the first time in 2022, the former USC star got involved in the rushing game. The fact it’s taken him so long to use his legs has been confusing to fans, especially when one considers what a danger this can be.

The player is doing exactly what is being asked of him. That is play turnover-free football and make throws when needed, which Darnold managed to accomplish thanks to some eye-catching plays from Terrace Marshall Jr. and D.J. Moore.

While Darnold’s solid play should not stop the Panthers from drafting a quarterback in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, it’s possible he’s brought back on a team-friendly deal as a bridge option.