As the Carolina Panthers look to bounce back from a challenging season, the organization's focus has been clear: rebuilding the offense around a formidable run game. The Panthers' rookie head coach, Dave Canales, is adamant about this direction. "That's what this draft and this offseason was all about. I feel confident that we'll be able to have a successful run game, which, for me, opens everything else up. It helps third down, it helps move the ball and give you more opportunities," Canales emphasized.
A Season of Struggles
Last season, the Panthers had a litany of offensive woes that left them near the bottom of the league in several key statistical categories. In rushing, they accumulated just 1,769 yards, placing them in the lower half of the NFL. Despite having an average of 4 yards per carry, a somewhat respectable figure, the team struggled to convert these carries into scoring opportunities, registering a league-low seven rushing touchdowns.
In the air, the situation was even more dire. The Panthers mustered only 3,245 passing yards, the fewest in the league. Their passing game woes were compounded by a dismal passing first-down percentage of 25.6%, also the lowest in the NFL. Equally troubling was their paltry sum of 13 passing touchdowns, tying them for the second-fewest in the league.
The Sack Issue
Protection for the quarterback was another critical issue. The Panthers allowed the second-most sacks of any team, with their quarterbacks taken down 65 times over the course of the season. Bryce Young, their rookie quarterback, felt the brunt of this pressure, enduring a tough inaugural season that saw him earn a 2-15 record.
Offseason Moves
In an effort to remedy these glaring deficiencies, the Panthers have made significant moves in the offseason. The drafting of running back Jonathon Brooks signifies a clear commitment to bolstering the ground game. Brooks is expected to add a dynamic dimension to a backfield already featuring Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders, who led the team in rushing yards last year.
Revamping the Offensive Line
Recognizing the need for better protection and more effective run-blocking, the Panthers signed guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis. These acquisitions are poised to fortify the offensive line, aiming to provide Bryce Young with the much-needed time and space to make plays.
A New Direction
The Panthers' offseason approach under Dave Canales underscores a fundamental belief: "It all starts with the run game," Canales succinctly put it. By focusing on establishing a strong running attack, the team intends to create a more balanced and potent offense. A dependable ground game should not only improve third-down efficiency but also open up greater opportunities in the passing game.
The changes suggest a strategic pivot, prioritizing the basics of football to foster an environment where Young can develop and the offense can thrive. Canales' confidence speaks volumes about the new direction: "I feel confident that we'll be able to have a successful run game."
With these strategic moves, the Panthers aim to transform into a more competitive unit in the upcoming season. The emphasis on the run game and protection looks promising on paper, but the true test will come on the field.