The Carolina Panthers' 2022 season saw a mixture of challenges and opportunities for growth, particularly in their offensive performance. Despite the obstacles, the franchise has undertaken significant steps to address its weaknesses and reconstruct a more effective offensive strategy under the leadership of rookie head coach Dave Canales.
Rushing Woes and New Hopes
The Panthers struggled to make a substantial impact in the rushing game last season, with a total accumulation of only 1,769 rushing yards. This placed them in the bottom half of the league. On the ground, the team averaged a meager 4 yards per carry and recorded a league-low seven rushing touchdowns, underscoring the urgent need for a revamped rushing strategy.
Recognizing the critical role of the rushing game, the Panthers took significant steps during the offseason to bolster their backfield. This included drafting promising running back Jonathon Brooks, who brings fresh talent to the roster. Moreover, the team signed experienced guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, moves that are expected to fortify the offensive line and provide better protection and paths for the running backs.
Canales emphasized the importance of a robust rushing game in his vision for the team's future. "That's what this draft and this offseason was all about. I feel confident that we'll be able to have a successful run game, which, for me, opens everything else up. It helps third down, it helps move the ball and give you more opportunities," he stated.
Passing Challenges
The air attack was another area where the Panthers fell short. Last season, they ranked last in the league in passing yards, managing only 3,245 yards through the air. Additionally, their passing attack was ineffective in securing touchdowns, as they tied for the second-fewest passing touchdowns with a mere 13. The situation was exacerbated by their league-low passing first-down percentage at 25.6%, which indicated a struggle to extend drives and maintain possession.
One of the most glaring issues was the offensive line's inability to protect the quarterback, allowing the second-most sacks in the league with 65. Such constant pressure on rookie quarterback Bryce Young, who finished the season with a 2-15 record, hindered his development and overall team performance.
Canales's strategy to improve the passing game also links closely to the improvements in the rushing attack. "It all starts with the run game," he remarked, signaling a holistic approach to offensive restructuring.
Promising Additions
In addition to Brooks, Hunt, and Lewis, the Panthers are looking inward at their existing roster for potential breakouts. Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, who led the team in rushing yards last season, are expected to play pivotal roles in the revamped offensive scheme. Their experience and previous performance can provide a solid foundation upon which the new additions can build.
The upcoming season looks to be a crucial one for the Carolina Panthers, as they aim to rectify their offensive inefficiencies and climb out of the league's lower echelons. The measures taken during the offseason reflect a clear intention to harness a potent rushing game and protect the quarterback better, factors that could unlock a more dynamic and effective attack across the board.
Ultimately, the success of these efforts will hinge on how well the team can coalesce under Bryce Young and Dave Canales's leadership. With a renewed focus on the running game and strengthened trenches, there's a cautiously optimistic air around the Panthers as they prepare for the new season. "It all starts with the run game," Canales reiterated, setting the tone for the journey ahead.