4 critical observations from the Panthers’ defeat at Bucs in Week 17

Carolina Panthers QB Sam Darnold performed admirably

Who’d have thought with everything we’ve seen this season that the Carolina Panthers offense wouldn’t have been the problem on Sunday? But for two weeks in a row, it’s topped 400 yards after the multitude of franchise records set in Week 16.

While the run game struggled on Sunday with only 74 yards on the ground, Sam Darnold once again showed he may have a future in the league even if that isn’t in Carolina. The former USC man ended his day 23-of-37 for 341 passing yards, three touchdowns, one interception, and a passer rating of 108.1.

Although Darnold did have a pair of fumbles, he showed improvement from what we saw from the player in 2021.

Darnold started the game hot. On the Panthers’ impressive first drive, the one-time New York Jet was 4-of-4 for 60 passing yards, including a beautiful pass to Tommy Tremble in the end zone.

What was most impressive about Darnold was his ability to successfully read the Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense. Something he’s always struggled with since entering the league.

His third touchdown pass was the most impressive. Darnold perfectly read the Tampa Bay safety as he covered Tremble’s underneath route, leaving just enough room for the gunslinger to deliver a perfect throw to Shi Smith.

While Darnold may not be a starter for the long term, he has shown that he can be an adequate bridge quarterback. Whether that’s in Carolina is another matter.