The loss of Kelvin Benjamin was a devastating blow to the Panthers’ offense. The position many thought was the team’s weakest was now even weaker and a shaky preseason riddled with drops hasn’t put fans’ minds at ease headed in the regular season.
But Cam Newton isn’t phased by what he’s seen. In fact, the Carolina quarterback says he has “unbelievable” confidence in his offense.
[ESPN]
When asked on Tuesday what his trust level is in the offense heading into Thursday night’s preseason finale at Pittsburgh, Newton responded, “Unbelievable.’’
But drops have played a major role. Corey Brown had two early in the second preseason game, leading to Newton’s 0 for 4 start. Brown had four more in the first half of Friday’s 17-16 loss to New England, including two that would have been touchdowns.
Pro Bowl tight end Greg Olsen dropped a deep pass.
“Those are things I can’t worry about,’’ Newton said. “It doesn’t affect me not one bit. I just want guys to come in and be ready to play. It looks he’s [Brown] ready to do that.
“Trying to get better is something that has to happen. We can’t just go through the motions. We’re trying for the best product that is going to get us ready for Week 1.’’
Newton has obviously had outstanding media training. But don’t get it twisted, as the quarterback and leader of this team, Newton can’t be happy about what he’s seen from his receiving corps. Saying he has “unbelievable” confidence in an offense that’s looked shaky at best is a reach, but if I’m headed into a season that many have deemed over before it starts, I’d want to instill nothing but confidence in the guys I’m lining up with. The alternative would do nothing but hurt the team more. And who knows…maybe Cam’s right not to fear. Maybe these receivers will shock the world this season. I just wouldn’t put any money on it.