Practice 1 is in the books and nothing much about Wofford has changed. The heat is still disrespectful and the people are still friendly, but much has changed with the Carolina Panthers. A quarterback battle and coaching overall highlight the offseason moves for a franchise looking to make a leap in the third year of Matt Rhule era.
Here are a few notable day-one observations:
Rust. Rust. And more rust.
Day one wasn’t the best for many on the team, especially on the offensive side of the ball. There were several head-shaking drops and a few overthrows. It certainly isn’t something to be concerned about day one, but it was noticeable.
Rep Count
Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield will split reps in camp. Darnold took reps first and Baker was second, followed by PJ Walker and Matt Corral. This will be the trend as the team tries to solidify who will be the starter for the season opener. Expect guys to rotate day by day who works with the first team initially.
Early Worm
The first guy to practice award goes to Matt Corral. The rookie quarterback, who is not letting the battle between Darnold and Mayfield deter his goal of being the starter, was the first to take the field today.
Apples and Oranges
Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield are different and it showed day one. While Darnold was very comfortable checking down during many of his reps, Mayfield didn’t hesitate to take a few shots down field…one which resulted in an interception by Keith Taylor.
Rotations
We saw several different combinations along the offensive line, which I expect will be a recurring theme during camp. Brady Christensen lined up at left tackle and left guard, while Ikem Ekwonu saw most of his action at left tackle. Taylor Moton is a staple at the right tackle slot, but many of the other guys were moved around the line as the team looks for versatility along that front.
Jaycee’s Out
After practice Matt Rhule announced that the team is placing cornerback Jaycee Horn on the physically unable to perform list after he experienced soreness in his right foot – which he injured in week three last season. Rhule says he doesn’t expect Horn will be sidelined for long.