How many losses will it take for the Carolina Panthers to play inspired?
With the exception of Bryce Young’s opening drive in the second half, the Panthers were uninspired and flat offensively. For the second time in a couple of weeks, the Panthers played listless. Here are more observations from Carolina’s disappointing 27-13 loss to the visiting Indianapolis Colts
Young’s Disasterclass
Young threw for 173 yards on 24-for-39 passing with a touchdown and three interceptions. Two of those interceptions two pick-sixes to Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II. It’s bad enough that there were pick-sixes in the first place, but what made one of them particularly aggravating is that it was was on a screen pass. The same predictable screen passes that’s been an offensive staple all season. It’s been a staple because of Young’s inexperience. Screen plays and all their variations are safety valves. They are for when all other options in a progression are unavailable. The Panthers’ mistake is going to it first to the degree of making it predictable.
Lack Of Discipline
The Panthers committed 10 penalties for a loss of 81 yards. What’s troubling about these penalties is that they’re indicative of forced mental mistakes. Getting baited in false starts and encroachments is a by-product of opposing defenses baiting and manipulating linemen. It’s one thing to surrender yards to opponents that flat out beat you. It’s another to surrender unearned yards. Carolina has to be smarter than that moving forward.
Who Are The Carolina Panthers?
When asked about the team’s identity on offense, Panthers Head Coach Frank Reich had this to say:
“I’m not gonna sit up here and give a seminar on what our (offensive) identity is.” He also said that while it’s a fair question, they are still trying to figure it out. The problem is it’s Week 9 in the regular season. If Reich doesn’t know, then this is an educated guess. The Panthers are a team with a rookie quarterback with not a lot of weapons and a lot to learn.
They are also a team that’s riddled with injuries on defense and hampered by poor roster construction by the front office. These issues will not and cannot be fixed in a matter of weeks. It’s going to take more time and effort than that.
The Panthers will travel to Chicago in Week 10 to face the Bears.
