5 Panthers players that disappeared at the Buccaneers in Week 17
By Nick Halden
Sam Darnold – Carolina Panthers QB
Sam Darnold threw for 341 passing yards and three touchdowns, including two beautiful passes to Shi Smith and D.J. Moore. The quarterback flashed his talent and demonstrated why he was such a high draft pick in the first place
Darnold has talent. But when it comes to these big moments, the one thing you can count on is a turnover. Or in this case, three.
The Carolina Panthers had the offense clicking and secured a healthy lead in the first half. How did Darnold respond? After an extremely hot opening, the signal-caller threw an interception that gave the Tampa Bay Buccaneers a lifeline and helped turn the momentum.
He also fumbled twice. Although how much these turnovers can be blamed on the former USC star is debatable.
Darnold threw two more balls that could have been picked off as well, including one that was saved by offensive pass interference. To say that he didn’t show up entirely wouldn’t be fair, but he couldn’t pull this team through when it mattered.
As Carolina should have learned by now, there will be missed throws and turnovers at the biggest moment. Something that could leave Darnold looking for alternative employment once his rookie contract comes to an end.