Saturday’s game left much to be desired for the Panthers. It was not the performance they hoped for. Preseason games can be unpredictable, with different players and motivations. But the stats tell a story that won’t be easy to face during their next review day.
The Panthers struggled on third downs, converting just 1 out of 10 attempts. They also incurred seven penalties totaling 58 yards, which stopped several promising plays. On the ground, they averaged only 3.4 yards per rush across 23 attempts, a troubling sign for their running game.
There were dropped passes, notably from tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, and a missed opportunity between quarterback Bryce Young and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. To add to their woes, two interceptions and a missed field goal compounded the team’s troubles. Backup quarterback Andy Dalton left the game after being hit on the elbow by Texans pass-rusher Danielle Hunter, raising concerns about his condition.
Despite the setbacks, offensive coordinator Dave Canales remains optimistic. However, he acknowledges the reality of the situation. “There was a lot of good work,” he said. “But it felt like a day of almosts.” He challenged his players to move beyond nearly making big plays.
Statistics show that successful teams convert on third downs consistently. The Panthers’ 10% conversion rate is far below what it should be to compete at a high level. According to recent data from a league survey, teams converting 40% or more on third downs have a significantly higher chance of winning games.
Fans took to social media to express their disappointment. Many highlighted the need for stronger performances leading up to the regular season. The energy around the team appears mixed, with hope clashing against concern.
As the Panthers prepare for their next game, they will need to sharpen their focus. Learning from these early struggles is crucial, as history shows that teams that adapt quickly can turn their fate around, much like last year’s Cincinnati Bengals, who dealt with early-season struggles but excelled in the playoffs.
For the Panthers, it’s time to turn those “almosts” into concrete successes. Teams that learn from their mistakes in the preseason often enter the regular season with renewed strength and determination.
Source link
Latest News,2025 Training Camp,Gameday,App News
