If this was the Carolina Panthers’ last stand on defense, they were going to go down swinging and scrapping.
On 2nd and goal with over eight minutes left in the game, Los Angeles Rams’ running back Darrell Henderson Jr. rushes to the right side looking to break the plane for six only for a wall of white jerseys to meet him at the line. Multiple Panthers dug their cleats in to push the surging Robinson back. Force begetting force. Might for might. Carolina’s defense, regardless of how gassed they were, went for it; A goal line stance that emanated defiance, if not domination. If they were going to lose, they were not going to accept it easily.
Henderson eventually broke the plane and broke any chance for an upset against the defending Super Bowl Champion Rams. The Panthers are 1-5 on the year, however, interim head coach Steve Wilks instilled a fight in the team that’s been non-existent for a long time. Here are more observations from the Panthers’ 24-10 loss.
Conservative Offense
Expecting a third-string quarterback such as PJ Walker to air it out is a bit unrealistic, especially when he has a tendency to do just enough to win. However, the offense could have done better than several wide receiver screens, short passes and check downs. Walker didn’t test the Rams’ secondary at all. Was it the game plan? Yes and no. Getting Christian McCaffrey his touches and establishing the run was a great idea, but Walker and the Panthers’ offense became too reliant on safe plays. As a result, the offense remained stagnant.
Anderson-Dailey Beef
The tension between Robbie Anderson and wide receivers coach Joe Dailey began in the first half when the receiver jumped into Dailey’s face before being separated by Rashard Higgins. The two continued jawing with each other toward the end of the third quarter. Anderson said something to Dailey while walking on the sideline. Wilks squashed it by sending the temperamental wide out to the lockers. Judging from the play calling, you’d probably think that it was an issue of lack of touches. If you’re guessing the trade talks circling around Anderson played a part, it wouldn’t be a far-fetched guess. Whatever the case, this is a situation worth monitoring moving forward in terms of what the Panthers could get if they decide to put Anderson on the market.
More Moore
It is no secret why DJ Moore is gaining interest from other teams. He is a receiver who is physical, can rack up yards after the catch and stretch the field if given the opportunity. The reality is that Moore is being severely underused. There was no reason for DJ to have two receptions for two yards through the fourth quarter. Granted, the Panthers need a competent quarterback. but until then the ones who they have need to find a way to get Moore the ball. Let him cook and the Panthers can give themselves opportunities to compete and possibly win.