Tag: Ejiro Evero

Sports, Political, Panther Football

Put last 43-13 whuppin’ of Panthers on hold, Green Bay is here Thurs. Night- Will Charlotte be a Trick or Treater?

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Put last 43-13 whuppin’ of Panthers on hold, Green Bay is here Thurs. Night- Will Charlotte be a Trick or Treater?
Calling Panthers game Sunday a House of Horrors wouldn’t be far from the Reality.

Pacino’s blind general in ‘Scent of a Woman’ speech torched an institutions legacy as dishonest- having nothing to do with the XL can of whupass Tampa Bay watched the Carolina Panthers open on themselves Sunday afternoon. Behind 7-0 immediately after the Buccaneers scored on their 14-play opening drive, *every*action*taken* in BOA Stadium turned out like Tom & Jerry mayhem, including a klong! extra point that turned into two-pts. for Tampa Bay, plus a fumble scoop ‘n score somersault.

JAWS films used the tag line, ‘Just when you thought it was okay to go back in the water,’ this rout was essentially complete after first quarter, and there’s no finger pointing to be done about it- total team collapse. If season opening 59-37 scorching- or, duh, Cleveland- are out-sized parts of 3-3- which Panther team comes out Thursday night is a major concern.

Yeah, ‘wheels off’ was appropriate- What else? was ungood vibe

As a fan-sports writer, I stopped taking notes at 19-6, then Young’s fumble, right? It sort of mashes together, seeing Brown and defense run on by ol’ Bucky (147? 2 TDs) looked like replays. More calls for Evero’s 3-4 to go and get more pressure abound. Is Okereke only guy who can tackle? (7 in 1st quarter)

What the HELL happened to offensive line? I was able to watch whole game Sunday, first in a while, and what can a sports writer or fan say about it? On a weekend where a half-dozen or so college games went to long-distance field goals to win intense overtime battles, there wasn’t a redeeming feature to any aspect of Panthers efforts.

If there’s a more ludicrous illustration of futility than having a missed extra point *run back against you* for two points, its maybe like Charlie Brown trick or treating in Halloween special, ‘I got a rock.’

Did I say ‘We agree’ about Bryce having arrived, and OC Brad Idzik’s play-calling? Uhhhh, guess so. My prediction early was 9-8, battle for division known for having iffy records. Bryce Young has been a best practices guy- good long ball thrower, minimal turnovers (ooops!) handles good rushing attack by Chuba Hubbard, Coker & TMac are tough to guard. Really? Is this why GM Dan Morgan hasn’t had (to best of anyone’s knowledge) serious contract talks with any representatives yet?

Or are Panthers pot-committed, with offense built around him that works- mostly? As fans and outside the selection process, its legit to wonder whether Next and Big Game Bryce is consistent, just as much as how secondary and linebackers tackle.

Fans can’t affect things at BOA or on TV, but Panthers kind of got people thinking the refurbishing of franchises reputation could expect more than a booster shot every other week.

Panthers Defense? Is that what they call it?

Okay, 258 yards and three TDs sounds more like the cooking QB Bryce Young has been doing so far, but those were rushing numbers against Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 formation, which still isn’t producing pressure/sacks. Young was very ordinary with very average protection (like Cleveland), so he can expect similar treatment from every NFL team *except* what maybe #32 Detroit did.

Green Bay is coming to town Thursday- anybody *thinking* of scalping tickets to the Cheeseheads? Like Dallas fans, they’ll pay $200+ for tickets, a flight and room for weekend isn’t a problem, and they *can’t* get a ticket to home games, so they come here. BE THERE Babalooey!

To cop a quote, ‘THESE are the times that try mens (guts, brains) souls,’ when you can’t trust the locals to win, or even cover. OC Idzik and Big Game Bryce going downfield to T-Mac or swervin’ from constant blitzers Thursday? WTF with offensive line dissembling?

Culture better include tackling better than those three Tennessee guys on goal line with USC kid battling to score. (not Sorry, and wow! What a moment there.)

Wasn’t this group declared ‘A Unit’ after guys went all 79 offensive snaps together last week? Yep, said that too, shouldn’t think I have to take it back already. Fan-wise, knowing its still only six games together, and we’re just spectators who like Ws better than Ls, the Hornets DID win their first two of season (Nets, Hawks) at home, get Wizards tonight. Just sayin’.

At NO POINT is any of this as important as our elections next Tuesday. Okay, for those college campuses across America, where a once-in-a-generation event causes everyone to lose their minds, and you’ll have lots more pictures and videos of rushing the field to show your friends-kids than they did from memorable times back at Whatsamatter U. Picture taking? Nahhhh. Conduct unbecoming what Momma said about gentlemen? Yaaa! and no evidence.

Panthers fans may of may not show their colors this week, but Army or App St. or UCF, whomever had a joyous ending, wear ’em if you got ’em. What else besides cardiac-causing finales is going on is early voting & campus voting. Almost 200 students marched to a polling place in Greensboro after campus voting was taken away? THAT is the real deal. Congrats on the good foot of those kickers, but election-wise, ONLY WINNING causes or allows the sort of changes USA need to call ourselves leaders again.

A guy up the street here in Myers Park gives out full-sized chocolate bars to kiddies, has adult beverages on porch for those who like to hang around and watch the kids roaming. Was it just last year I opined at a fire pit that night, ‘We won’t have to worry about ICE raids’ and they hit MPCC their 2nd day of ops in Charlotte?’ Yep. Will election results three days after Halloween be equally as dramatic as the goooood sized *moving* spider that gentleman has hooked up next to porch was with young Batman?

Whatever hex is on Panthers that prevents them from winning a couple games in a row, they took down Packers in Lambeau Field last time played, but they won’t be favored at home. Secondary could/will be tested as aggressively as Goff did (412 yds) if front seven doesn’t get actual sacks. Lee, Moehrig, Ransom must be thumpers on run support too.

Received kit of disaster pack and water sticks, none of which would have helped against 28 yards rushing, 3 TDs. Just sayin’.
Panther Football, Sports

Panthers fans luvin’ 25-14 Philly victory- Long drive silences crowd, DEFENSE puts down a marker

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Panthers fans luvin’ 25-14 Philly victory- Long drive silences crowd, DEFENSE puts down a marker

Mark the quiet of Philadelphia Eagles fans, impressed by 3rd quarter drive that showed Panthers O-line, Bryce, Idzik’s offense can grind with anyone. Yeah, Eagles with 35 yards rushing (222 total), no Jalen Hurts and 3 sacks of Tanner McKee, wasn’t much to cheer.

Lions, Eagles, Packers, Rams are perennial playoff teams Panthers will need to beat regularly with a division winner schedule, so its been an effective 3-2 so far. Panthers TE Tommy Tremble caught *TWO* TD passes in Philly, so NFL is on notice- HC Canales and OC Idzik are definitely not gonna be like any version of Carolina in a while.

Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 defense has done an outstanding job on three top NFL running backs, but the good tackling in secondary you can *see* might impress too. Thanks again to GM Dan Morgan for getting Devin Lloyd late.

Bryce Young has clearly arrived- Agreed?

Give credit to HC Canales for handing OC duties to Idzik, “Nobody knows what’s under the hat of a wizard.” Young is sound trigger man, Panther offense is in another gear now, #2 in NFL, 404.4 ypg

Watching another good pass-rushing team be evaded as often as Young (20/39/281 yds./2TDs) got loose Sunday was instructive- on TV, he literally disappears at times. All those other jerseys seem to swarm around, then Bryce pops! out of pack- mobile and always looking downfield for playmakers.

Defenses must respect his weaving out of traffic, and account for his willingness to take off for yardage as more than ‘a little guy trying to steal a few.’ The ball is getting to receivers fine by game metrics- ask Tommy Tremble.

I noticed he actually checks his rear-view situation when coming to a defender on a scramble- from behind tacklers don’t get big hits on him, he understands getting down.

Some will continue to laud the QBs play as making him extra-worthy of a large-large new contract upgrade for Year 5. The Panthers standard as best business practice has always been to pay those who produce, and GM Dan Morgan doesn’t figure to stiff Bryce while keeping contract negotiations ($40M? $46M? Prescott $$?) waiting a little.

He’s still too short (sez ‘them’), and gets a lot of passes blocked at line. How many? He’s almost same size as Drew Brees = Not 6 ft., and every color commentator (ie- HOF defensive end, JJ Watt) says, you can’t get there, get your hands up is the deal. So that means defense isn’t getting to QB, right? Investment in developing a tight, run-based offensive line AND protect Young’s pocket is tracking well in 2026.

Panthers welcomed Moton’s return to action, and were willing to pound the rock with Chuba Hubbard (28/120 yd/TD). And, as noted by a color commentator, Young has a better fastball than in past. The offensive line was together for all 79 snaps. THAT’S a Unit.

Post-Heisman expectations for Young were impossible to fulfill until lots more talent arrived too. He’s at 60 percent completion rate now, averaging >270 yards/2 TDs a game. MVP talk is premature, but in Charlotte, yep, he’s That Guy. Gshork 10/19/26

About those quiet Philly fans- The Carolina Panthers 14 play-91 yard, 7:43 off the clock march, from their nine yard line to a final 1-yard shot by Hubbard (#6 of year), included two outstanding plays from Coker and Hubbard. Coker (6 catches/97 yds.) snagged-ran for 32 yards out of the slot on third down-eight play, Hubbard broke a 19-yd. run on fourth-less than a yard. T-Mac had 6 catch/86 yd. day.

DEEEEEFENSE! Definitely best outing

After Jared Goff stress-tested the Panthers secondary for 412 yards/TD without Horn and Jackson (out indefinitely), the front seven has come together on pressuring QBs and new people are covering and tackling (check DeVanta Adams stripped of sideline catch on last play of game). McKee gets credit for 26/45, 215 yds./TD line, and now becomes the Eagles regular starter, as clotting problems for Hurts legs will probably shut him down.

Because of 59 points and 299 yards rushing given up to Bears in opener (and Goff’s 412), Panthers defense is at #18 in NFL rankings at 354 ypg. Princely Umanmielan, Lloyd, Brown, Wharton, Bobby Obereke, and several others have opportunity to make a name for themselves.

Nothing lucky about production on both sides of the ball, and by all accounts, jamming it the length of the field for 19-7 lead is exactly the ticket to take out usual over-loud Iggles crowd. Just sayin’.

It was fourth loss in a row for Philadelphia. Tampa Bay is coming in, Panthers are -3 favorites at home, O/U of 44.5 indicates there’s not great anticipation of Bucs putting up big points. Just three sounds like a gift (I’ll accept!), especially if current broken thumb keeps Tampa Bay’s QB1 Baker Mayfield out of the game.

Playoffs?! (Jim Mora voice) The Panthers are -140 now, a huge affirmation compared to Opening Day.

Sports, Panther Football, microeconomy

Lions-Panthers in Prime Time is Early Gut-Check Game- LBs must slow Gibbs, Idzik’s Offense is solid

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Lions-Panthers in Prime Time is Early Gut-Check Game- LBs must slow Gibbs, Idzik’s Offense is solid

When Browns scored for late lead, it seemed like a long time ‘lose one they shouldn’t’ flaw in Panthers history, and those usually sting beyond ‘disappointing.’

Looking at team-individual stats, one that stood out all week was Young’s 26/48 passing, far below his usual accuracy, and Big Game Bryce looked under siege. But Chuba Hubbard had over 100 yds. offense, the Panthers D gave up less than 260. Couple guys injured (Horn), some previously out (Lloyd) return v. Detroit, subs (Lee) acquitted themselves well.

(Nahhh, this is from a bike accident 10 years ago. The Panthers just SEEM to be looking like an ER with their weekly Injury Report. Didn’t even get stitches- or did I? Oh right, six. For sure the concrete was hard.)

Got to peek at Browns game while working my microeconomy job in suit sales, caught end of 3rd-4th quarter at home. It was low scoring, as trap games often are, a Panther rally well within range, no strain, use Chuba, and no clue why Watson was still playing football.

Every stat I heard during broadcast seemed to give props for effective play calling by OC Brad Idzik. Eleven completions- Worrell had a handful- to the TE position was almost historic, certainly nothing Panther fans have seen in quite a while. I don’t recall thinking Young was getting jailbreak-like rushes, but *someone* was loose/threatening in middle every play.

Alas! there’s the rub as one now sees- Young didn’t protection of extra/any seconds to dial things in like previous games. Efforts by Cleveland tackles Mason Graham and Jared Verse et al is why Young had checkdown passes completed to TEs, but less than 100 from vaunted running game (Hubbard- 82 + 28 yds/TD rec.)

Its a very different Offensive Line

Panther fans know this isn’t the same solid group that allowed for Bryce Young’s turnaround as a leader the last season-and-half. Most of the faces are new, especially the tackles, where left tackle Walker (Free Agent) and rookie RT Monroe Fielding (GA) are in spots previously held by veterans Ikem Ekwonu (out for season, patella) and long-time Ironman RT Taylor Moton (blood clots) were core elements to offensive cohesiveness/pocket safety for Young. Center Luke Fortner was shoved around all day by Cleveland’s Graham/Verse, Freeling was put into concussion protocol Mon. after being on field for all 77 offensive snaps (expected to be cleared for practice), and rookie C Sam Hecht (Iowa) will probably get first NFL start against Lions.

No kidding, LOTS of names on Injury list. 17 games is a LONG season to keep people healthy (operational?). Having both Horn (torn quad) and S Mark Jackson out indefinitely will create a stiff task for secondary against Goff’s Lions WRs Sunday night.

Panthers defense should not be defined by first game blowout, but Jaymere Gibbs might have something to say about Sunday night. Ejiro Evero’s defense was stout in Cleveland, although Browns got 132 total from backfield. In previous article, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/games-panthers-regularly-mess-up-glenn-shorkey–ckdoe/ it has historically been the case of Charlotte fans expectations/belief being given grudgingly, especially in down cycles and I’ve often used Detroit (esp. Millen years, poor Stafford) as an example of mismanaged franchise- but that’s not true of either organization now.

Panthers GM Dan Morgan continues to get props for his selection of talent, the Lions are a team Panthers will have to beat to consider moving up to ‘competitive threats any time’ status.

Without impugning anyone’s actions, Panthers getting some key people back counts, and average (so far) regular 270 yds. and couple TDs from QB Young in OC Brad Idziks productive first season, the offensive line will still be the focus of action. Young was 26/48 passing, and yes, once examined in post-game, ‘someone’ was always right in his face on every snap. Chuba Hubbard has three receiving TDs already. Coker playing makes big difference with ‘best practices.’ Better thought: (would be hearing) Devin Lloyd is good to go. -GShorkknows 9/30

The chain of thought about losing in Cleveland was always that Lions win in Charlotte prime time game, and that becomes ‘a morbid 1-3 slide,’ and what are odds of such a team rising? Could any balm be taken from a potential loss maybe, like two seasons ago vs. Chiefs and Eagles? NO. Ws are still the currency of Now, 2026. There are more negatives with personnel available than ungood execution of offensive-defensive schemes, but support from those who thought Carolina Panthers would be on upswing with expected win vs. Browns, was effectively dunked on by QB DeShaun Watson.

I still point for break-even after Game #10 vs. Saints, dog fight to end for 9-8 division. Yes, they will need to sweep table vs. ATL and Saints to keep on track. They have a first place schedule, up against better teams, and AFC North is always a bruising division (Ravens, Steelers et al). Winning at home, in prime time Charlotte, well, go ahead and take the points, even if you want to believe Panthers won’t need it for Queen City Upset. (No, really, take any points you can.)

While you’re at it, take the Over- Lions are averaging 31 ppg. (fyi- Panthers 29.7) and wow! is the board agreeing on that- fifty! sounds like fireworks coming. Panthers put up 37 in first game, so still agreeable thumbs up for OC Idzik’s offense. If Hutchinson and Lions front puts extreme heat on Young again this week, guess we’ll find out if TE targets can develop into a best practices part of events- nobody doubts their ability to block. Chuba Hubbard is ready to keep contributing, that’s also about best practices.

Panther Football, Sports

Panthers loss should intrigue, ok to appreciate offensive ‘half a loaf,’ BIG Effort in ATL will silence Naysayers

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Panthers loss should intrigue, ok to appreciate offensive ‘half a loaf,’ BIG Effort in ATL will silence Naysayers

The old saw about best attribute of defensive backs is a short memory (for being burned) is legit POV for Charlotte, after lopsided loss to Bears in home opener. Its not division of responsibility-blame to say Bryce Young and offense produced mostly as anticipated. Whether such scoring becomes the new standard- 18.3ppg was 27th in NFL last season- starting now seems legit. Chalk Chicago up as big loss and wake-up call, a division game with QB-challenged arch-rival Falcons feels locked in for Eviro’s defense.

Yes, Forgive vs. just Forget

Its still going to be a long season, 16 more games, and any prediction of beating 9-8 is prejudiced by how strong the schedule is early with playoff-level opponents, although Atlanta is not one of those teams.

Looking to Game #10 vs. New Orleans, if Panthers have better than break-even record, that should be considered a positive accomplishment. I’m not the only person who looked at Chicago score and said, “That’s not going to be how things go all season. Chill.”

GlennS.- 9/16/26 This whippin’ will indeed be something defensive unit should chew on for a while. No 300 yds. (ok, 291) rushing, defend home turf, MISTER Brown et al. Poke that nose tackle. Nobody is separating team elements, but certainly not what *anyone* expected though.

OC Idzik, production by Primaries is Factual

Half a loaf of Success because ‘it was plenty of points except for X’ is wrongful thinking. Give credit to Chuba for a pair of TDs, Coker for 134 and a TD, and Brooks 48-yard catch and run- watching replays, he gets going FAST. That’s regular offensive weaponry for first-year Offensive Coordinator’s Brad Idzik’s list of calls. T-Mc had an average game and a bummer play, Head Coach Canales has said repeatedly that Idzik and he ‘have worked together for years, they’re on the same page’ is now a production fact.

Those who expected Young to put up these kinds of number regularly as proof of leadership, its a pretty tight package right now. He did leadership pretty damn well second opportunity after benched for five early in Year 2, and now people will continue to talk about his contract situation.

IMHO, Trust your QB to deliver, trust the organization is going to reward the progress you’ll make over five-five record at Saints game. I’m not sure $$$ has to be a top-6 $$ amount, Prescott anyone? Mega deal with Lawrence? Is $30M anywhere near the table? Carolina Panthers have always been seen as fair to deal with. ‘Unless’ isn’t usually a positive operative word, but fifth year option isn’t getting ‘You’re the Man!’ money.

Idzik’s primary role is moving the ball, sequencing effective plays, packages of players. One relatively recent addition is scoring off major plays vs. constantly slugging it out with 13-play drives. That fits with the ball control offense Panthers were structured around with Chuba Hubbard and early offensive line upgrades, now quick strike is a legitimate option.

Some will bemoan Scourdon, Brazzell II loss for season, and latest drop by Legette, Wallace and Jimmy Horn gone and think season is in flux immediately. Despite the kickin’ in opener, the operational reality is this is a team with no major flaws, long on best practices. There’s an old coach’s truism, ‘Nothing wrong a couple Ws can’t cure.’ That’s where Panthers are. GShork 9/18/26

Playing a First Place Schedule Counts

For those who expect negativity about record, yes, Panthers will indeed be playing more good teams based on their 1st place in NFC South last year, and this year they draw the AFC North (Steelers, Ravens, Bengals, Browns) https://www.si.com/nfl/panthers/onsi/predicting-panthers-games-ahead-daunting-2026-schedule?page_source=v_recir. Except for the always dangerous Joe Burrow aerial show, thats not (any younger) ol’ MVP Aaron Rodgers in Pittsburgh, and God only knows- in Cleveland. Those are the places to get a little healthy along the W-L way. Win one-lose one won’t really get the job done any more.

The offensive line, a strength through most of last two seasons, after GM Morgan spent big money on a pair of guards to stabilize Young’s pocket- now has a raft of new faces. They’ll have to refocus on keeping Young upright in pocket, without forsaking the ground game Canales plans around. With Hubbard’s run-pass TDs as positives, and 361 well-distributed passing yards and three TDs (+1 rushing) by Young Sunday, is there anyone in Charlotte who feels actually BAD about losing *and* scoring 37?

Straight up, I’m going to grab a BUNCH of just giving 2 1/2 to ATL. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/49974012/qb-cooper-rush-getting-second-start-falcons-sources-say The defense getting a couple picks/sacks, some turnovers versus outrageously blown coverages would reassert Eviro control. The offensive line is probably due for Show Us Time, with 100 yards by *somebody* or maybe 170 overall. Expectations? Nahhh, wellll, yeah, I guess it is time to see if (FA, GBay) Rasheed Walker is an answer at LT, and whether Ikem Ekwonu will contribute there and in what time frame, $17.6M contract is only secondary consideration. Moton on the right is sidelined, so Freeling is getting early runs; new guy, Hecht (R, Iowa) might get early start at center.

Panthers going five-five, including with win game in New Orleans, is feasible. 7-3 seems like over-achieving, and given how Saints usually treat Panthers in the Dome, 4-6 record is just as likely. Panthers have Sun. late game at home with Lions, or must pull off another win at that frozen tundra place, as biggest variables. I sure wouldn’t want to compare opener with Bears to a 160 yard-3 TD game by Gibbs when I’m sporting a losing record. Evero is still not able to make a single tackle, but overall, this OMG! seeming moment is fixable.

Nobody’s heads are on the line in Charlotte, although Jimmy Horn, Jr. is not an option now. T-Mc, Coker, and Brooks should continue getting plentiful opportunities in Idzik’s flow. Ooops! thats still offensive stuff.

So if Jaelan Phillips gets another 13 tackles as Panthers move forward with the 23rd most difficult schedule in NFL (based on W-L record Week 1), thats kind of a new vibe, sacks too…? We should/better hear Moehrig’s name a LOT more regarding tackles, and all things to consider, how about 3-4 blitzes from Thornton in ATL? A blitz sack or two by Panthers defense, yeah, putting heat on Cooper Rush, who had a 2.6 QBR for a 12-22, 143 yds/1 TD/2 INT opener in Falcons opener vs. Steelers, sounds like a best practices deal.

microeconomy, Panther Football, Sports, Thought Leadership

Yes on Panthers early injuries, TEAM, defense, Year 3 of Canales-Morgan-Tilis is ‘Football people making football decisions’

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Yes on Panthers early injuries, TEAM, defense, Year 3 of Canales-Morgan-Tilis is ‘Football people making football decisions’

Moton’s clot, Wharton’s neck, Ekwonu’s patella, Offensive line changes, Brazzell- still a full WR room. Jonathan Brooks continues closer to being a RB reality, Kuechly and Hall of Fame game, Mr. Legette are all legitimate factors. Room again for Jimmy Horn, Jr?

While many Panthers fans and a wedge of media has gone OMG! about the injuries reported in first week of practice, trust GM Dan Morgan has the necessary bodies in camp. Scourton loss was epitome of a rough week regarding names that were creating buzz about possibilities. Princely Umanmielen (#3 in 2024) https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4429166/princely-umanmielen is next man up, and we’ll just see how everyone plays in Hall of Fame Bowl vs. AZ Cardinals on Thursday, Aug. 6th.

Panthers franchise LB legend Matt Kuechly will be inducted August 8th.

Just a quick note on that gentleman- In my suit selling microeconomy gig, I had the opportunity to do coat & pants for a young man, a rising sophomore at Charlotte Christian. He needed some alterations to accommodate thighs, but conversation was about thrill because (sometime previous) coach Kuechly invited he and Dad to HOF ceremony. That HAS to be major juice for soph athlete aspiring to THAT as the standard we can/often hold athletes to.

Apparently that doesn’t apply to Gift to Americans of LIFE for untold many that Dr. Fauci was responsible for, and SURE isn’t anything like standards for America’s prez. March 18, 2021- best, almost guaranteed, chance at living, very simple. My Dad had polio as a kid, you bet four brothers took the Salk sugar cube vaccine.

Yes, CHARACTER. Panthers always had people like Olsen, 3x run for Man of the Year, 3-1000 yard receiving years, Thomas Davis, an effort machine. Its a renewed element in Coach Dave Canales culture rebuild. Remember when Cam scored all those TDs after short fields supplied by defense? When 50 sacks was an off year?

Deee-fense again! too. Ejiro Evero’s unit has a straight up nose tackle supremo, Lee Hunter. https://www.panthers.com/news/5-things-to-know-about-defensive-tackle-lee-hunter so lets rock! Devin Lloyd https://www.nfl.com/videos/rapoport-devin-lloyd-agrees-to-three-year-45m-deal-with-panthers-gmfb and Jaelan Austin https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4242975/jaelan-phillips are going to put up stats. Austin has any injury problem, everyone will have a problem, but he’s a stone-cold make a difference guy.

No, the Panthers haven’t thrown the Big Money to many, now was time for best business practices, which is Morgan paying up- just like when he brought in guards! for big $$$, and stabilized offense, kept Bryce upright. Yes, the $$$ on Bryce Young is going to be a question all season.

What does 7-3 start get this year’s Panthers, respect-wise? It would mean taking splits with Gr.Bay, Bucs, Eagles, Bears, Buffalo, and Detroit is a Sunday Night prime timer. Just askin’, could Big Game Bryce start making believers with W against Chicago on Opening Day? (No early pressure…)

Offensive line will still be a key positive, Freeling rocks

At the time Morgan drafted the big https://www.panthers.com/team/players-roster/monroe-freeling/ (6-7, 315) ex-GA Bulldog at #19, he stated Panthers weren’t locked into Freeling as LT, a position previously ‘fixed’ by FA Rasheed Walker (from Green Bay) while Ekownu figured to rehab- he’s not listed as out for season. No doubt Freeling will be putting on lots more necessary weight, his pass blocking is high order, he’ll be fine with run-blocking for Chuba, Etienne, or Brooks.

DeAngelo Williams, terrific back, and got players to wear pink for (his Mom’s) cancer. Panthers always have fine community people, other futbol too.

Right tackle Taylor Moton hasn’t suddenly fallen off his Ironman pedestal, https://www.panthers.com/news/taylor-moton-reliable-ironman-grateful-teammate-team-dad-100-starts, and the blood clot factor hasn’t sounded like a major hassle. My brother Mike had three sessions with lung clots, once from long time drives up/back to NY. While bro did hospital time (and only has one kidney), I’m real sure Moton will get best of best health care asap.

If six-eight weeks early on is acceptable safety, it compares better than say, C-MC being held out half a season for high ankle sprain after that $21.6M bonus post 1000-1000 record year. Roger Craig and Marshall Faulk being only others to hold that production levels, I never let him be called ‘injury prone.’ Same for Brooks- Charlotte knows his story, and mercy! he could get crowd roaring with a 12-yarder.

Panthers let both centers go FA (Mayes, Corbett) from super group effort last year, and #5 pick (Iowa, C) Sam Heck will battle Luke Fortner (New Orleans, 1 yr./$4.75M) for the starting gig. ‘Steel sharpens steel’ has been a byword for couple years now, and there seems enough young & well-nurtured talent around on both sides of the ball. If its working hard against Cards for HOF game vs. soft in preseason, no starters are mentioned for duty during that, Pickett will lead offense. I won’t believe any common practices will be easy, sociable.

Wasn’t the first game of Bryce Young’s Yr. 2 a debacle vs. Saints, when line was LOT less talented and defense gave up like 45 points, because they seldom worked on each other fearing front line injuries?

Seeing how team is glad Horn’s foot laceration ‘injury’ is done, his coverage benefits the receivers trying to practice getting away against tough defenders. Safeties include Moehrig, Jackson, Thornton are clocking in right, consistent way, secondary unit is better and getting paid to be. Hill is already considered a keeper. Ohio St. safety Ransom is back, and returning (probable) nickel coverage safety by Chau Smith-Wade, in 3rd year here, knows the system, capable at several levels. Thornton could excel in blitz setups.

Bobby Brown III and a hamstring, some cases of ‘camp back.’ Its not players dropping like flies.

Canales likes his full rooms for TEs, RBs, WRs

Don’t sweat Brazzell, its a knee Panthers won’t push, see you when possible. There are young guy options for #4 WR without paying other organizations. Yes, Scourton gone for year is a blast defensively, seems Princely Umanmielen is already stepping up.

Year Three of Ejiro Evero’s defense could be special. Derrick Brown again, a true nose guy. Free agents Jaelen Philips & Devin Lloyd contracts are proof that when GM Morgan goes hunting, he brings goodly elements back to the cave.

Legette is working out fine by all standards. Everyone knows he’s got the physical goods, and few can afford to say, ‘let him go, he won’t catch better elsewhere.’ ALL the Panthers receivers are bigger than usual, Jimmy Horn, Jr. being the bug at well under 6′. T-MC and Coker are a fine duo, XL is worthy of penciling in at #3.

Can we say, ‘600+ yds, 40 catches, 4 TDS would be an excellent year for Mr. Legette?’ As the joke goes, we can say it, but will numbers mean successful? Is it kind of obvious, he gets *some* extra targets the newbie might have been up for. He’s had 4TD s in a year. Point of the spear, will Idzik call his number productively?

That Bryce Young is known for throwing anticipatory passes, leading receivers open with well-placed throws, a caveat of mine is ‘Cam never did that,’ throw a receiver open. You went to somewhere, he’d pin a fastball on you. Bryce is an accurate, minimal turnover NFL quarterback- and when asked to, throws downfield well, so go ahead and ask for couple long strikes vs. 13 play drives?

Leadership quotient- Super. T-MC goes to head of class with any string of big efforts, Coker is better every year, so wow! in advance. HIM as slot receiver, or use TEs more?

TE position wasn’t upgraded to any degree. All three can certainly block/help O-line with blitzers or OLBs and keep a cleaner pocket for Young. Ja’Tavian Saunders could well benefit from OC Brad Idzik taking over play calling from HC Canales. Saunders was tagged as a great get before neck injury, there’s no denying his size, elite speed, and substantial catch radius would be greatly appreciated in Red Zone snaps. ‘The other Notre Dame guy’- Mitchell keeps popping up on radar.

Panthers paid up for Tremble, and if you’ve got a trio of big guys who can catch, that COULD be in Idzik’s offense, right? What are expectations for Saunders, where whatever Jonathan Brooks might well inject into the Panthers offense wouldn’t be twice as big? There’s been nothing but good words regarding performance after last injury, and that is a truly fine potential hole card in Panthers hands.

We luuuuvvv our Chuba H., but Brooks is a legit breakaway threat stud who, if he indeed gets reps like Dowdle last year, could become the best tandem for Panthers since Jon Stewart and DeAngelo Williams https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DeAngelo_Williams .

#leadership thought, microeconomy, Panther Football, Sports

Panthers ‘back into’ playoffs still counts- 1st 2026 check with comma, trump & US War Ops in Venezuela should rate higher

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Panthers ‘back into’ playoffs still counts- 1st 2026 check with comma, trump & US War Ops in Venezuela should rate higher

Panther players, HC Dave Canales, Owner David Tepper, fans are positive about ATL for a little minute, Thanks! and enjoy #4 seed at home vs. LA Rams and Matt Stafford-Puka Nacua. My first check of year means I’ve matched Social Security income; took a 22% hit on Medicaid, and a gas heating bill (655 sf/ 2 BR) was over $100 for early December, we’ll see how January works.

My SPAN benefits ended, so buying own groceries and some for care bags now. Food benefits made a difference the last year, nearly as much as good retail gig offer from blue before Thanksgiving, two miles from just-repainted and black-shuttered, same rent as last year apartment group at bottom of Sharon Rd. to Nordy’s. Starting Year 5 here, I’d usually call that stability. https://cdtalententerprises.com/2021/01/18/smarter-than-average-bear-content-writing-boomer-replants-thought-leadership-flag-2021/

Yes, great tux, quality ‘tribute to Frank’ story about untied bowtie worked great.

I wore this new midnight-blue tux to work on 1/1/26 because I didn’t find anyplace to show it off NYE. Left bowtie undone, told people it was ‘tribute to Frank.’ Customer opined that “Message is you partied all night, rolled out to work in same as slept” *maybe* a shower stuff of our Younger Selves Memories. I said yes, lets go with that & Tuxedo Attitude. Fun day. Two suits to very intense entrepreneur was heck of start. Loved Landon’s ‘Not quite as tight as Connor McGregor’ standard.

“Message is you partied all night, rolled out to work in same as slept” *maybe* a shower stuff of our Younger Selves Memories. I said yes, lets go with that. Fun day. Two suits to very intense entrepreneur was heck of start. Loved his ‘Not quite as tight as Connor McGregor’ standard. 1/1/26

Air quote all you want- NFC South Division winners

Carolina Panthers 16-14 loss in constant downpour in Tampa Saturday wasn’t fatal, and yes, 8-9 is still Winners. They were sub-.500 before with 7-8-1 record during run of three division titles. All calculations come around to ‘It depends, because anything can win NFC South.’ That was true before Brady years, ATL also 8-9, catch you next year.

This Carolina Panthers team has some chops now. Obviously beat Rams earlier this year here, DC Ejiro Eviro’s defense indeed revolves around Derrick Brown’s return to middle of all the action, his sacks and pressures are relentless. Does anyone question Tre’von Moehrig’s $51M free agent salary, based on LOTS of run support (#2 on team) tackles? Rozeboom too. Rico Dowdle picked up $1 million bonus for topping 1,350 yards from scrimmage.

Yes, a quick Thanks! to Falcons. Cousins still thinks he rates a full time NFL QB role, Penix is still the plan in ATL, but Cousin’s been in right place for big contracts before. If GM Dan Morgan and VP Tilis hadn’t already picked up Year 5 of ‘Big Game Bryce’ based on higher expectations, its gonna come up. Is a substantial extension due- for core players as Panthers have notedly done all year- when ‘production’ of sub-200 ypg. and turnover free leadership, plus playoffs- earned obscene $$$, like Prescott or Drake Maye $$ will be? Baker got 3 yr/$100 mill last year…

That’s how lots of seasons end

Derrick Henry’s face when Loop’s kick went so crazy wrong, that’s how lots of seasons end. Since last years finale against ATL, when Bryce Young blew up for 5 TDs, that experience Carolina fans carried forward all season, might now be called for. Three fairly big wins- Dallas for starters, then Green Bay, Rams, plus clutch game here vs. Tampa Bay- the fannies are back. Best practices have prevailed throughout Panther organization. Sorry about Renfro.

The payoff on $20 FanDuel bets for beating 6.5 Ws and taking NFC South division weren’t huge, but still better than relative sharp stick in the eye Henry got, when Ravens previously perfect FG kicker missed a last-second attempt against Steelers that cost them AFC Central crown. Everyone’s other favorite player, Christian McCaffrey, missed another 1000-1000 season with only 924 receiving yards.

Life goes on in Charlotte, despite trumps “We’ll run Venezuela” utterances. Will there be any panic suit selling in January to disturb-juice my microeconomy? (Jack Victor-Peter Millar is from Canada, just sayin.’) I’m several hours more productive on my writing time blocks in Week 3 of work schedule; reacquiring personal goals, like anticipation of getting a 3 mi. ride on nearby Booty Loop, actually counts. Doing thirty-three hour weeks in January, I’ll continue to get my $$ share on that front, with Spring weddings and proms not so far away.

Getting a fist bump from Dad last night, because I nailed putting a 42L, charcoal-gray First Suit righteously on his enthused-at-great-suit feeling son, that still counts for me.

Two AE/PR persons from Hornets and Panthers came through shop Friday- gold BUZZ CITY jacket was tip off- before Panthers loss in rain Saturday, or now 13-23 Hornets tight 122-121 loss in Milwaukee on 1/2, a 112-99 win over the Chicago Bulls, and super-sized surprise 124-97 thumping of OKC. We discussed why ‘Loserville’ monicker may fade slowly- and gave credit to #MrTeppers$ for his other futball operation- and now productive NFL path of ‘Let football people handle the football operations’ non-meddler.

Some still want to remember him as Real Bad, but ‘back in’ vs. backed in regarding playoffs is a brighter POV. Steve Miller as an Overseer in aftermath of Venezuela is an absolute worst case for anything POV.

Hornets Still Building

Both NBA Hornets and NFL Panthers have restructured management, spent judiciously, and put strong operational people in charge- Executive VP Jeff Peterson with the Hornets, the Panthers have a well-meshed trio of super-positive HC Dave Canales-GM Dan Morgan-VP Brandt Tilis for two years. Both now feature a young core player group, unlimited by past seasons poor iterations and never sniffing of PLAYOFFS?!- say it like classic Jim Mora if you want.

The ‘Core Four’ Hornets brought to Charlotte in 2026 NBA draft was greatest shot of talent since, well, ’96-’97 team swapped almost everyone out- rights to Kobe Bryant for Vlade Divac, remember?- and new coach Dave Cowens helmed a 54-28 team. (My prediction was defensive intensity by Cowens influence and 52 wins.)

Last actual playoff year – 2016, the longest such streak in league. (OMG! even the Wizards?)

Ryan Kalkbrenner was a 4x Defensive Player of Year in Big East– Use him like that, the Rim Protector they’ve lacked since maybe Mourning, and Diabate is a quality asset, coach the heck out of him! Rookie-yet-comfortably-already-described as one of premier 3-point shooters/playmakers, Kon Knueppel is every bit as advertised re: smart player, checks all the boxes. Sion James, lets play defense because we can, very glad to see Miller at full speed. Melo- I guess we still agree to disagree about always using that ‘2022 All Star’ tag, like ‘Hall of Fame Coach Hubie Brown.’

I just might get to a Hornets game soon, after last nights Melo outburst in Hornets 124-97 thumping of OKC, on the road! Certainly should attract attention-fans in seats, still that question of being in lineup to contribute consistency, even if minimum 65 games to win awards is silly. https://www.si.com/nba/hornets/onsi/gameday/takeaways-from-the-charlotte-hornets-shocking-win-over-defending-champion-oklahoma-city-thunder

Its ‘Big Game Bryce’ time in first rounder with Stafford and Rams, who they beat here in Charlotte mid-season https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZuPz6owCPw Somewhere between last weeks 192 yards and club record 448 yards, Young was excellent Week 13, so more TMc-Coker, Legette? several RB receivers, with their solid ground attack (116 avg.) keeping things closer to 18 ppg pace they’ve shown is legit- 10.5 points is the spread so turnovers by Rams again are at a premium. Stafford-Puka not doing high-order damage to Panthers is hopeful math. Can Ransom provide run support like Ohio State safeties should AND cover/tackle? Counting on secondary – could Horn-Puka be a showdown?

Whole lot of Derrick Brown & Panthers DEEfense! and yes, Ejiro Eviro has re-proven his defensive expertise when given the personnel. Perhaps he’ll be considered for current head coaching gigs available, but now, its the Rams. Ball control with Panthers well-regarded offensive line long play-time drives? Could that, and selectively great passing, stand up to one of NFL’s premier offenses twice? The best defense is Matt Stafford not getting extra time to sling it to productive receivers like Nakua.

The USA taking military action at this level, I almost shudder to think of Greenland, but football playoffs with Panthers is a nice difference this sunny Tuesday. Getting a fist bump from Dad because of 42L, charcoal-gray first suit that fit righteously on his enthused-at-great-suit feeling son, that still counts for me.

microeconomy, Panther Football, Thought Leadership

Four suit Sunday is Great! for my Microeconomy, Panthers 20-17 loss still leaves in 1st place

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Four suit Sunday is Great! for my Microeconomy, Panthers 20-17 loss still leaves in 1st place
Compared to most of two years home alone with a screen, back on the suit-selling and chatting with many is good by me.

While knocking it out in suit-selling punctuated first week back in retail, its also super-affirming how many former customers have recognized I gave them desired great service in 2023, good to have me back.

Nothing I saw in 15 min. clip for Carolina Panthers-Saints when I got home- 5 sacks and only 81 yds. rushing by defense- despite 11 penalties, I couldn’t see how they lost. Guess you had to see the total badness, its not usual ‘We wuz robbed!’ when NFL is checking things out.

In fact, it was playing for first place, NFL level defense, and Panthers still need 2-of-3 wins down the stretch. My season projection, and $20 worth of FanDuel (-450) on the proposition, 9-8 and in position to take NFC South, was a small gamble- most fans know thats often enough here.

The Carolina Panthers are looking at a Bucs sandwich now, with Seahawks between, to put down new markers. Staying over .500 is a must, Division Winner! is the organizational grail. I didn’t figure losing both games to Saints, buuuut OMG! if NFL investigation is actually happening.

I tell-remind customers they haven’t heard squadoosh about #MrTeppers$ for most of two years. Somewhere before getting the Tilis-Morgan-Canales ship moving, he paid attention to best practices advice of, “Let your football operations people do what they do.” He is not a meddler, and despite record bad 2024, Ejiro Evero back as DC is direct result. -GShork 12/16/25

Employment, Productive Microeconomy, a Sweet Writing Schedule

Having known before Thanksgiving that I’d have a good bill-paying retail job in SouthPark, I’ve commented that it was cool to be manager’s #1 draft pick when department had an opening, at least not going to Raiders. He hired me four years ago too, as COVID was ending. As previously noted, I believe the economy is way different now than ’21-’22.

As a career salesperson and journalist-Writer, my communications skills are A-1 and flexible. I’ve always been killer determining what people want-need in helpful manner- I get paid on how well I accomplish that. Working the closing schedule (2-9:30), I can automatically schedule two to four hour blocks for writing weekly, go for bike rides on 3 mi. Booty Loop nearby, grocery shop, and have lunch meetings- its two miles to work!

That ‘opportunity’ came directly to me, unsolicited, as straight a bolt of good fortune as this 68 yr. old BoomerwithAttitude and Romance Writer could’ve imagined.

Reading regular negatives in LinkedIn about ageism (obviously true) and just how lousy the job market ’24-’25 is for grads, getting a re-do after my ‘doing something else’ post-COVID decision in ’23, thanks, I’ll take it.

Lucky? I maintain highly qualified- you’ll appreciate the difference. I am king of the Hugo Boss blue suit, appreciate the Jack Victor and Canali lines, and will discuss the difference between a sports coat and an $875 unstructured jacket if you don’t already know.

I cheered for the gent who tried on, literally, every blue-tinged jacket in the department, *except* a reddish-purple blue one, just said, No. ‘No, what?’ wifey asked. ‘No, honey?’ cracked me up. All agreed a beauty of a jacket, but he had no interest.

Guys who say yay or nay, great when they try things on. A younger, maybe thirty guy becoming CEO of a company after selling two previous ones, really wanted an image suit. Does he know how to pull the trigger when shown the goods? You betcha.

Right now, its like Maverick’s ‘target rich environment.’ Oh, open till 10:00…

Am I insulated from what’s about to be a tougher microeconomy for many? I know there’s a 22% hack in my Medicaid starting in January, but I’m effectively earning about $30/hr. on two weeks this first pay period; I’m effectively doubling my Social Security income. I still have $151 of SNAP benefits, which I really needed this time last year.

I try to keep a bag of groceries in the car for less fortunate Others, even some frozen meat, but no Pampers. Never let it be said you’ve done less than the least possible when its crunch time. When tossing a couple bucks, I believe $3 is way better than 2.

I stand strong on being a BoomerwithAttitude, and since the boost I felt as a Precinct Judge (D) on Nov. 4, and whats happened across the country until now, I’m still confident in my microeconomy, my democracy, and those Carolina Panthers grading solid B+.

The pen is a classic because I made it with Dad in Tampa long ago. I still chuckle at his ‘worst ever worked with’ assessment- I got the ultimate one-off souvenir I wanted.
Sports, Thought Leadership

Panthers back to Earth at 4-4, Hornets (3-4), Crown loses 1-0, then Wins 7-6 in penalty kicks

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Panthers back to Earth at 4-4, Hornets (3-4), Crown loses 1-0, then Wins 7-6 in penalty kicks
Didn’t actually get a good read of the World Series, Attaboys! to Jays ,but while few know what ‘s under a Wizard’s hat. Shorkknows had a tough week of NFL football.

Okay, the question of Loserville being in Charlotte professional sports rear view mirror- NFL, NBA, MSL for starters- was actually rhetorical. ‘Escape velocity’ is still down the line.

QB Dalton (ehhhh) and RB Dowdle (!! Canales!!) are difference makers mas or menos, but seriously, nothing negative about Chuba or Kalkbrenner.

Halloween tricks probably won’t continue into Sunday’s game against Green Bay for Panther fans, and although 13 points might entice bettors, there are plenty of alternatives for this long-time sports bettor. No sense worrying about the home team when the Raiders are only getting 3 pts. from the Jaguars and the Giants (-2.5) are only getting a couple from the 49ers. While the Giants have screwed me religiously my entire betting life- and my 50th high school reunion was only a month ago- I won’t take Panthers game either way. Its more about the Hamiltons than Benjamins at this point, and although I’ll watch and cheer for them, no sense letting a good parlay get torpedoed.

Actually, scratch that ‘tude. Made Ed. Note- Just after kickoff, recognizing I couldn’t be a weenie about Panthers predictions, ‘If Bryce *doesn’t* blow things up and have to play from 14 pts. behind- just saying, we know that’s been a problem. Pass rush HAS to arrive today, taking good O-line making long drives, T-Mc and all others catching vs. dropping, Yes, Panthers beat the spread by scoring average 21.

Denver (-1.5!) in Houston sure feels like a gift, with 36 sacks by defense and Bo Nix picking up where he left off rookie year, which was pretty damn good. Whether it would be a sportscaster jinx for anyone in the TV booth or for a writer to suggest Colts QB Dan Jones (formerly an unappreciated Giant) could be a Comeback Player of the Year candidate- usually the domain of injured players vs. just hated for contract-production of wins negativity- suggesting Indy continue best practices, yeah, BUT… Maybe they open the proverbial can of whupass on the Aaron Rodgers Steelers, after Tomlin’s Monday Night’s performance. Give minimal three points? Done.

I’d also suggest taking the Lions (-8.5) against the Vikings, because Detroit is still working off a couple decades of being thumped by the Vikes and Packers. There’s no reason to believe Mr. Shough (really? the ending sounds like a K?) will have anything except ugly from pretty early against the Rams.

Guess what? Panthers game is only one I backed that pulled its weight. Its not 100% make a difference in season moment yet, but over .500 would certainly be progress, and just sayin’, Over-Under for Panthers W is only 6.5. https://www.foxsports.com/articles/nfl/2025-26-carolina-panthers-odds-odds-to-win-super-bowl-nfl-playoffs-division

‘The Other Guys’

In the MLS playoffs, Charlotte’s 4th seeded Crown lost the first game at home 1-0 to #5 seed NYCFC on a 34th minute goal by Alonso Martinez. Charlotte FC forward Wilfried Zaha, who was red-carded in the season finale and missed this game, was a considerable loss offensively. They went to NYC for the second leg of a cumulative score series Saturday, and evened the series with a 1-0 penalty shootout (7-6) win. Charlotte FC Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina stopped Agustin Ojeda for the finale. Teams will have an extended time before Game 3 Friday.

The Hornets, who hit a terrific 18-3s and nine players with double figures in their season opener against Brooklyn Nets, were much less prolific in second week of the season, are now 2-3 after being whacked by the Miami Heat 144-117, and Orlando Magic (2-4) last night, 123-107. Kon Kneuppel, who had five of the Hornets triples in opener, had one last night, and five points in 27 minutes, avg. 30 min. court time and shooting 41% from 3. Center Ryan Kalkbrenner continued his solid play with 17 points and 7 rebounds, and definite rim protector. Lorenzo Ball had a 17 point, 13 assist night, and is averaging 26.3 pts., 9.5 asst, 8.3 rebounds, Moussa Diabate had ten points and six rebounds. He and Kalkbrenner could become a tandem.

Loserville might be a state of mind, but in the betting world, you are frequently either the predator or the prey. The Panthers opened the season at +400 regarding winning the NFC South (FanDuel) is currently +700. Go figure…The Hornets (3-5) after losing 116-112 to Pelicans, is playing in the sorry Southeast Division, +2200 to win their division, ahead of the (honestly, still listed as an NBA team?) Washington Wizards at +25000, the Magic at +100.

Panther Football

Panthers 0-2 start isn’t fatal, but like Legette production and O-line injuries, far from reassuring

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on Panthers 0-2 start isn’t fatal, but like Legette production and O-line injuries, far from reassuring

Admitting I turned off the game immediately after the first few disastrous minutes (only a field goal after INT? Whew!) to take a bike ride in optimal weather instead, doesn’t make me a really bad fan. Holding Cardinals to 82 yards rushing is a *major* improvement from Week 1, and Renfrow’s two TD catches is better news overall, so we’ll see how home opener vs. ATL goes…

Guessing that the most often Googled question in Charlotte was, “How many NFL teams recover from 0-2 starts to make the playoffs?” the answer is of 288 teams hitting that mark since 1990, 88% didn’t participate in second season, and only three- ’93 Cowgirls (uhhh, Cowboys), ’01 Patriots, and ’07 NY Giants- won Super Bowls. Fourteen have made the playoffs since 2014- including the LA Rams and Baltimore Ravens, who won their divisions last year- when NFL started 17 game seasons, which added a little extra room for early season non-success.

The Terrible Ten on 0-2 spot in 2025

While the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans are factually in this unhappy place, most oddsmakers give them a much better chance at being like the Rams or Ravens, especially since Ravens still have RB Derrick Henry battering anyone who wants a piece of him, Lamar Jackson’s arms and legs are still attached, and there’s a hard core, #1 rated defense to hold the fort against almost anyone not having Josh Allen (or Mahones) to do battle with.

Of the rest, most are chronic Losers:

  • Saints have tapped this level 24x in 59 seasons. Even in a division with three teams at 5-12 last year, many will count on two Ws when they play the ‘Aints, mostly because of an extremely iffy QB situation.
  • Browns- No surprise here. Brownies have gone 0-2 sixteen times, have *5* QBs in the building if you count the pile of bones that was once DeShaun Watson, a 40+ year old statue named Flacco, and two rookies who get nothing but crap for their relative situations, especially Coach Prime’s kid, Shedeur, who arrived as a 5th round pick (but tortured the Panthers in preseason game).
  • Jets- You really only wondered how often, right? New Head Coach Aaron Glenn has brought Hope, but she and Lady Luck usually leave NY well before the end of each season. No playoffs since 2010, five times at 0-2 mark in last nine years, and with QB Justin Fields in concussion protocol, retread Tyrod Taylor is at the controls. Better off than Panthers? Read any NY paper for sports writers and regular people opinions (NOT!).
  • Titans and Dolphins- They belong in same boat, because there’s no telling what HC Brian Callahan (3-16 in coaching career) or rookie QB Cam Ward can actually produce, and the often-injured (concussions) Tua Tagovailoa, while sometimes steering a productive offense, can’t be relied on to finish a season. Mike McDaniels occupies one of the warmest head coaching spots at this point, no specific improvement- defense is giving up 33 ppg – could end his reign. He gets questions about that for a reason.
  • Dah Bearz- *Nobody* is giving them any slack about blowing an early lead in 27-24 Game 1 loss to Vikings, and the 52 points division rival Detroit thwapped! them with Week 2 is MILES shy of the salvation fannies expected from new Head Coach Ben Johnson, well, immediately.

So where do Bryce, Canales, Carolina Panthers stand?

The ATL pass rush (six sacks) looked strong against Minnesota’s J.J. McCarthy, and Bryce Young was blown away early by the Cardinals blitzing, so the possibility Young’s confidence in the pocket reverts to the early season woes of 2024 must be dealt with by keeping him upright on Sunday.

Starting with Canales admonition that, “Sometimes its better to eat it-take the loss,” any group of Little Leaguers would have known when a play is going badly, DON’T try to save it with a miracle throw. Yes, that fluttery INT by Young was when heading out for a bike ride seemed like a better idea than blowing away an extremely quiet and satisfying couple days with friends out in western NC, by watching a rotten game.

That Bryce slung it all over the lot (35/55, 328 yds./3 TDs/1 INT, 1 fumble) without his arm falling will stand as a basis for judgement the rest of season. Renfrow coming back after not making 53-man roster, and Young finding him in tight spaces is legitimate QB-ing and clearly positive. McMillan hitting 100 yards was affirming as anyone could ask for, yes, Legette’s eight targets and -2 yards isn’t going to be helpful compared to Tremayne’s 3 catches for 48 yds., Sanders 7/54 yds., Hubbard 5 catches/39 yds. and even TE Tremble’s productive 3/20 yds.

Anyone who thinks ‘I’ve talked with (DC Ejiro Evero) about playing our young guys’ is sufficient input from HC Canales, a common thread for fans is HE BETTER!

Giving Panthers credit for having a chance down the stretch is done with knowledge of several games last year where the final result was an L, which only rated some polite golf-applause for 5-12 season. They are neither the powerful group that Ravens or Chiefs are with a similar record, nor the Brownies, who will continue to take considerable crapola for being a franchise that tortures their fans, or Bears, who *might* get it righter in 2025 but are still prime time torturers themselves.

Wide receiver DJ Moore still works exceptionally well in Chicago, producing an outstanding 2024 with 98 catches and 6 TDs, although his yardage (966) was down from 2023, as Ray Odunze got considerable targeting by rookie QB Caleb Williams when he wasn’t constantly on the run, being sacked 68 times.

Dammit! about RG Robert Hunt (torn bicep) and C Austin Corbett- whose unreal series of injuries might extend another season- could be out for extended periods or in Hunt’s case, even the entire year. The Panthers O-line were supposedly safe for once, having brought back essentially two deep personnel from the 2024 offensive line, Canales said Cade Mays and Corbett were a coin flip difference in readiness at center. Christensen is a legitimate piece to flex in at right guard, but losing both means another call for GM Dan Morgan to locate additional quality personnel on whatever taxi squads he can identify.

The ATL pass rush (six sacks) looked strong against Minnesota’s J.J. McCarthy https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/vikings-vs-falcons-live-updates-game-score-sunday-night-football/live/ and Bryce Young was blown away early by the Cardinals blitzing, so the possibility Young’s confidence in the pocket reverts to the early season woes of 2024 must be dealt with by keeping him upright on Sunday.

#leadership thought, Panther Football

‘These are the times that try…’ relative to Panthers, not just USA, cheers to Irmo team for LLWS thrills

by gshorkeyblt2Leave a Comment on ‘These are the times that try…’ relative to Panthers, not just USA, cheers to Irmo team for LLWS thrills
This one’s for ump with clutch call on tag at 2nd base in LLWS game, and football operations for Panthers, putting a much-better product on the field in 2025.

Politics aside on mens #&%!?# souls or lack thereof, after a 6-run rally in seventh inning carried Irmo to victory the night before, the Southeast reps were part of youthful glory everywhere for Little Leaguers, families, and fannies. Panthers now at cut-down time to 53, fans should hope GM Morgan has that A+ touch one more time (for a linebacker?) before Sept. 7th game with Jags in Jacksonville.

September 8th I have some Precinct Judge (D) duties in prep for local elections on 9th. I wonder about current political soul-ry more often lately. Stephen Miller is for sure wrong though, Tibetan circulatory exercises from online actually work, making me an active 68 who doesn’t usually require the nap. CBD drops are hemp… Yeah, Blue & Yellow combo is a protest for Ukraine.

As a sports fan, and considering retiring as an active Blue (umpire), I watched a full share of LLWS, and congrats to those young players, and an overall thrilling run of TV human moments and sportsmanship. The ‘Believe’ their coach laid on them before that near-miraculous comeback, its a touch better than ‘Win one for the Gipper.’ Yay! Coach.

The call at second, where Irmo runner *barely* wanders off, as catcher heaves it down after passed ball that might’ve opened a door for another Southeast rally, and fielder waves a slap-tag at him ‘just because,’ ump was right on it for OUT! Just sayin’.

Proud Blue raises a cold one to you gentlemen, and to your dedicated leadership, those coaches and these moments will be forever memories. Its not hyperbole to say its the American Way I grew up with, everybody can appreciate laying it on the line, somebody wins.

SURPRISES?! For 2025 Roster – room for a couple Others

August 26th is now the operational date for getting down to 53 on main roster, plus 16 on taxi squad. The Panthers work on best practices in front office, and are very aware they can’t afford to let other teams poach precious nuggets like Horn or Brycen Tremayne, who has a well-documented https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article311718130.html stretch of good days during training, scrimmages, and productive preseason efforts.

Up close, its a tough call on keeping six or seven receivers on 53-man roster – most had penciled Renfrow as #6. Please don’t trade Thielen back to Vikes! to make room. To be a hero again back there, maybe – guy deserves to be part of a great year, could definitely mentor Horn.

Trevor Ettiene probably won’t be a surprise keeper, a sweet return last night was affirmation he’s the return-special teams talent they’ve wanted. UDFA Thornton as a DB seems like a lock for Panther rotation, his strong final preseason game with Steelers nothing but good news. -GShork 8/22/25

If many aren’t 100% sold on Nick Scott at safety opposite Moehrig, Canales vote will count. Chau Smith-Wade is going to be a bona-fide https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4697636/chau-smith-wade cover guy this year. Ransom had an INT last night, the prospects of being both strong cover and the traditional Ohio St. run-support football guy will help put DC Ejiro Evero’s reputation back on more righteous track.

Penciling in one more unforeseen linebacker pickup by Morgan to give that group actual depth is reasonable. A major factor in 2024, bodies-personnel were brought in/started in under a week several times during injury-plagued season. The roster has been restocked with players with documented productivity for 2025, Windmon and Rhattigan should see their names on it. Shy Tuttle might well be leaving, or kept as affordable backup.

Is Wallace ready to be All That for Panthers defense in Year 2? GM Morgan showed his quality marksmanship in free agency, before an A+ draft as rated by PFF, using #2 and #3 picks on hard-charging defensive ends. Panthers have been within three of bottom sack position and pressures for years. Anything like that 3,000 given up rushing isn’t going to be allowed. Nose tackle Cam Jackson (6’6″, 328 lbs, Florida) will get plenty of reps.

A Four-Point better Offense – You Better Believe It

The Panthers are far from the worst ppg team in the NFL at 20.1 – that would be the Giants (16.1) and Cleveland at (15.2). NFL avg. – 22.4 https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/carolina-panthers-average-points-per-game

GM Dan Morgan has built a healthy level of respect league wide for being a super-cagey front office guy legend, starting early with a major log on the fire, drafting a true WR1 with #8 pick, Tetairoa McMillan while rest of NFL was thinking deee-fense! https://www.si.com/nfl/panthers/news/carolina-panthers-rookie-tetairoa-mcmillan-value-picks Camp video showed T-Mac tracking-catching a perfect over the top, fade to outside shoulder, tight coverage throw, and then everyone saw same deal, with a one-arm catch in first exhibition game. That’s not just reputation or trick mirrors, its WR1 grade play.

Morgan got #2 back Rico Dowdle, a 1,000 yards gainer for Cowboys, FREE! when they neglected to offer him any deal. The option of a second, seriously good back behind the Panthers well-regarded, and 100% back intact, two deep O-line, is an absolute strength in 2025.

Its painful that anyone feels Leggette’s position as first round draft choice last year (Morgan’s initial career biggie deal) is somehow diminished to ‘secondary sidekick’ status if T-Mac becomes All That as a rookie. Second years are frequently the jumping off year for such players, extra coaching counts. NOBODY can find fault with the obvious effort XL has put into becoming a better ‘hands’ receiver, certainly not HC Canales, whose loyalty to efforts for better by all individuals is strong. Yes, there are expectations.

Canales previous relationships with WR Moore might be enough at decision point this time. If Panthers could afford to keep seven receivers, he has got special teams efforts as hole card, like Etienne will in staying as a back. (Ed. Note – Renfrow comes back! after Coker injury, Thielen trade.)

CHUBA HUBBARD https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4241416/chuba-hubbard deserves to get name in CAPS, and Morgan got #2 back Rico Dowdle, a 1,000 yards gainer for Cowboys, FREE! when they neglected to offer him any deal. The option of a second, seriously good back behind the Panthers well-regarded, and 100% back intact, two deep O-line, is an absolute strength in 2025. Bryce Young’s comfort level in the pocket, and on-the-run accuracy when waving Coker to backline spot for toe-tap TD, continues an upward affirmation of his offensive control.

‘Things can happen,’ but fans faith in Panthers rebuilding as a professional football operation again, is being handled correctly, with long-term Success on the table, and pride very possible for upgrading, is primed. Collecting on any impulse bets about Over/Under 6.5 wins would be a start on satisfying some seasonal expectations.

A consistent, semi-legendary fact, about how long it took Carolina Panthers fans to believe in last Super Bowl team – ’twas Game Ten, that Thanksgiving blowout of Dallas, Panthers still unbeaten – is kind of the local standard. Expectations in 2025 are better aligned with level of enthused Believin’ like those Little Leaguers did. Congrats! again to them, loved the ride.