The Carolina Panthers have faced a challenging season, characterized by lackluster offensive performances and a rookie head coach navigating the complexities of the NFL. With the Panthers accumulating only 1,769 rushing yards, they found themselves in the bottom half of the league in that category. Their average of 4 yards per carry and a league-low seven rushing touchdowns underscored their struggle on the ground.
Addressing the Panthers' offensive woes, head coach Dave Canales emphasized the importance of the run game: "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." Canales, stepping into the role in his rookie season, faces significant pressure to revamp an offense that ranked last in passing yards with 3,245 and tied for the second-fewest passing touchdowns with 13.
The Panthers' passing game suffered heavily, evident in their last-place finish in passing first-down percentage at 25.6%. Quarterback Bryce Young, also navigating his rookie season, posted a challenging 2-15 record, suggesting that both the aerial attack and the ground game need substantial improvement. The offensive line also faced its share of difficulties, allowing the second-most sacks in the league with 65. Such numbers only add to the myriad issues that Canales and his staff must address moving forward.
In the offseason, the Panthers took decisive action to bolster their roster. Recognizing the need for improved rushing capabilities, the team drafted running back Jonathon Brooks. Additionally, they signed guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, aiming to reinforce an offensive line that struggled to protect their quarterback and open lanes for the run game. The performance of these new additions will be crucial in determining whether the Panthers can reverse their fortunes.
"It all starts with the run game," Canales reiterated. His focus on developing a strong ground attack is well-placed, given how intertwined rushing success is with overall offensive effectiveness. A potent running game not only helps in controlling the clock but also in setting up opportunities in the passing game, easing the pressure on Young and improving the offense’s overall balance.
Last season, Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders led the team in rushing yards. Their contributions will be vital once again as they share the backfield with the newly drafted Jonathon Brooks. Competition and depth at the running back position could potentially breathe new life into the Panthers' run game, providing a much-needed spark to an otherwise stuttering offense.
Canales' philosophy and offseason moves aim to rectify the glaring deficiencies that plagued the Panthers last season. By focusing on strengthening the run game, he hopes to create a foundation that will enable a more balanced and efficient offense. The additions of Hunt and Lewis are expected to forge a sturdier line, giving both the running backs and Bryce Young better opportunities to succeed.
The upcoming season presents an opportunity for Canales to prove his mettle as a head coach and for the Panthers to move past their offensive struggles. The success of these efforts will depend heavily on how quickly the new acquisitions integrate and whether the team can solidify their run game as the cornerstone of their offensive strategy. If successful, the Panthers could see marked improvements, providing hope for a better performance in the next campaign.