There’s no shame in keeping it simple if it means doing so is the difference between wins and losses.
In the Carolina Panthers’ 19-13 win over their NFC South rival Atlanta Falcons, that’s exactly what they did. They ran the ball well and Darnold, before leaving the game with a concussion, did just enough to win. Here are some observations from the Panthers’ week 8 victory.
Establishing The Run
The Panthers accumulated over 200 yards on the ground against a Falcons’ rush defense that’s 15th in the league. What the Panthers did today, running the ball, is what they should have done against the Giants last week. Knowing that rush defense is a weakness for the Falcons, the Panthers exploited it. Chubba Hubbard led the way with 82 yards and the Panthers’ lone touchdown on 24 carries. Hubbard is gaining more confidence in each outing and is expected to continue in the games ahead.
Third Down Completions
One positive to take away from this season for the Panthers is their improvement on third-down completions. Carolina was able to control the pace and the tempo of the game, even when they trailed for the majority of the contest, by going 10-17 on third downs. Darnold and the offense succeeded here by short passes and the rush.
Defensively, the Panthers took away Atlanta’s opportunities for completions on third downs by defending the run. The Falcons only converted three of their 10 third down attempts.
Clutch Defense
In low-scoring affairs, it is the defense that’s usually the cause. For the Panthers, once again, the defense is cause and effect. Constant pressure contained the Falcons for the entire game. The secondary held Atlanta tight end Kyle Pitts to two catches for 13 yards, which is the worst performance so far in his rookie season. The defense also came up with two interceptions-including a game-sealing one from Stephon Gilmore. Thompson and Gilmore helped contain Matt Ryan by holding him to 146 yards passing. After the game, Thompson expressed the defense’s commitment to support and carry the team.
“We’re always going to have the offense’s back,regardless of what happens,” he said.
