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, ‘IfBryce *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.
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.
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
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 Pantherswell-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.
Fans won’t beable to see Panthers practiceson field downtown this season or next. This is a scorching reminder for anyone who ever attended a practice in Spartanburg. This is like 9:30, and people are in the small sliver of shade, you just stood there, talked some, and sweated.
Its obviously been a looong minute since Charlotte has cared this much about both its NFL and NBA franchises. With kudos for a couple seasons of solid management all around, and showing major promise in getting to There in 2025, burying Loserville tag on two vibrant, moving forward leadership groups will make for a hotter, more satisfying rest of sports year. (Knights are 11-9, 4th in International League East)
7/21/25 https://www.nba.com/news/nba-2k26-summer-league-kings-hornets Well now, 6-0 is actually more than anyone expected, and I’m kind of laughing at those who dissed KK after mediocre first game. Whether a reasonable, happy news result is coming about last years French product at #6 still seems in doubt, https://www.nba.com/player/1642275/tidjane-salaun but just knowing Ryan Kalkbrenner is available to become the rim-protector Hornets have lacked forever isn’t a fact that will diminish before next season.
Being a 4x Defensive Play of Year in Big East isn’t luck or coincidence, and if they want him on perimeter shooting threes like a Euro-center, that’s probably the least of his traditional back-to-basket, guard your man mission. Not considered a great rebounder? Giannis was 11.9 rpg, what’s great ? Everyone should be on the boards, evv-very-one! Moussa Diabate can’t shoot much? Get some glass, keep other guys honest. Sion James will be a force on the defensive perimeter and boards – 8.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game (Duke, 2025) .
The Hornets now have *plenty* of shooters with Knueppel, McNeeley, Miller, Sexton, and as far as anyone knows, Melo. Tre Mann, Josh Green and Nick Smith, Jr. will need to battle, Mason Plumlee might be one Dookie too many after scanning early roster.
Hornets President Jeff Peterson is Donald Glover’s character in ‘steely-eyed missile man’ category re: Rich Purnell Maneuver (‘The Martian’, 2015).
Original moniker was applied to NASA flight controller John Aaron (Apollo 12, 13), and refers to calm, crucial solutions and decisive actions – his ‘Switch SCE to Aux’ – after a lightning strike threatened to scrub Apollo 12 launch is legend. In movie, its a gravity slingshot around Earth for an impossible mission – 553 days longer – to save a left-behind astronaut.
7/17/25 Yeah, that is about how far Hornets had seemed from Success. GShorkknows
Contracts and Expectations, Many, many names
Whenever a naysayer opines that *everything* is riding on this Panthers team blowing 6.5 wins out to insure GM Dan Morgan, HC Dave Canales, and Pres. Brandt Tilis don’t lose their jobs, I let them know that football operations are doing just fine, #MrTeppers$ hasn’t been that rip everything up by the roots owner for a while. Lots of names will pass through Panthers roster before first game (Jax) in September, Hornets have some numbers to trim as well.
Yes indeedy, there are loads of Expectations here in the Buckle of the Bible Belt, and YES! Morgan did an admirable job, showcasing an A+ rated draft of documented production defensive and offensive talent, after substantial filling of defensive gaps with qualified FA personnel. Dang! about Josey Jewell leaving in concussion protocols after seven months.
There isn’t an unsigned tag on #2 pick Nic Scourton any more, and he’s done all previous training thus far. Camp starts Wednesday, so it wasn’t a hold-out per se. https://www.on3.com/pro/news/2025-nfl-draft-contract-details-revealed-for-panthers-second-round-pick-nic-scourton/ The NFL knew Morgan needed to draft a ‘he can hurt you long’ receiver at some point, his selecting AZ All-American wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at #8in 1st rnd. an indicator why (IMHO) he’s got inside track on Executive of the Year. Addressing defensive needs got handled as best practices. Just sayin’.
Offensive lines get talked about until there’s no need to, and the Panthers now stack every position with a replacement. Austin Corbett and Cade Mays will have a battle for center, luck on staying healthy hasn’t been Corbett’s best friend. Chuba Hubbard is the teams Alpha-Lead Dawg, if that’s necessary to state, although having another 1,000 yard guy back there shouldn’t be a struggle.
Will we determine whether Bryce can see even better down field behind this line, or will Panthers move him around to open up passing lanes? (He sees fine).
Young’s ten TDs-no turnovers in final three games still hits key chord in growth estimations. The most effective aspect of a play action pass is the reality of the quarterback actually giving the ball to runner for a healthy gain. Panthers Hubbard keeps that uppermost in a defenses concerns, adding variety with open playbook becomes a fact with QB Young and Head Coach Canales on same wave.
DEEE-fense! arrives in Charlotte – Damn straight!
Fact Panthers defense surrendered a stupendous amount of rushing yards – over 3,000 – well, Derrick Brown is again the Sheriff, and there are defensive ends and nose tackles now with documented stats and history with DC Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 model. No, Shy Tuttle wasn’t the answer at the nose position, though he figures to stay on roster as a rotational player. GM Morgan isn’t passing out #MrTeppers$ to just anyone, and the $100MM contract that Jaycee Horn earned after an All Pro, injury-free year, speaks to how things should now be done in Charlotte. Looking at you Mr. Moton.
You probably haven’t heard many of the 90 names on camp roster who project as second half of keepers on final 53-man roster, and its going to be Panthers taxi squad (15) that will make a difference through 18 week regular season.
Going into Wednesday, its been noted there is a plethora of choices in the WR room, and most of top six seem like no-brainer keeps. At no point will Panthers try and stash Horn on a taxi squad. Yes, T-Mac will learn what REAL July humidity feels like in Charlotte. The physio-people will be on top of everything – Ooops! almost said ‘No sweat.’
Is that Rozeboom guy from Rams really a 135-tackle bad ass?
Its been noted there is a plethora of choices in the WR room, and most of top six-seven seem like no-brainer picks for roster. At no point will they try and stash Horn on a taxi squad. If he wants to imitate Stevie SuperStar starting with returns, lets go! No ego, he played opposite a Heisman guy.
Yes, T-Mac will learn what REAL July humidity feels like in Charlotte. The physio-people will be on top of everything – Ooops! almost said ‘No sweat, T-Mac,’ but no, ain’t gonna be AZ dry heat.
Did doubling up on young stud defensive edge rushers (Nic Scourton, Round 2, #51) and Princely Umanmielen, Round 3, #77) mean Clowney was expendable? Apparently yes, though there was a moment of concern about a slip-possible injury immediately post-cut. All the linebackers have downfield speed for coverage, how well sacks are produced will be a subject of much counting from Game One.
The Panthers have been bottom three in sacks for years, but just FYI, team record is 60, held by 1996, 2013 teams. In Peppers superman 2008 campaign with 14.5 sacks, they had 50. With the recognition that Evero’s projected safety tandem (Moehrig, Ransom) are recognized thumpers, don’t be surprised what a professional, career as well-regarded defensive coach, can come up with, maybe blitz packages, when his personnel is closer to genuine NFL grade.
Yes, Expectations will be way higher than last, well, seven years. I’m a #BoomerwithAttitude, so thumbs up for Football Operations. Go Hornets, thoughts for Melo…
Things will be less gloomy in Charlotte, with a brighter offensive-defensive energy, a newness reboot of franchise.
Celebrating start of personal 31st year in Charlotte, arrived 1995, same as Panthers, and similarity of high energy and ‘newness-reboot’ on team pride for 2025 is legit. By most estimates, Panthers have six solid, multi-skilled WRs, with a quantity of attention on Xavier Leggette, after four opportunities to show off his Dollar Bill gallop as TD celebration.
He’s honest and right about several non-catches costing team football games, and being the other side from 6’4″ Tetairoa McMillan, the Panthers #1 pick from Arizona, teams are going to have trouble doubling size and speed on both.
OC Idzik – ‘First time same position for me too’
When some NFL analysts have evaluated the Panthers upgrades in personnel as only worth a single victory more – 6.5 – than last season projection, believing the best receiving room talent accumulated since first Super Bowl is in direct line with best practices by football operations is easy. https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2016/2/7/10902996/carolina-panthers-2003-new-england-patriots-super-bowl-XXXVIII Add three tight end targets and a couple backs, Bryce Young’s options behind a well-tested offensive line will mean undeniably bigger numbers offensively. In documented production of every free agent and draftee in 2025, the WR array is beyond solid, on offense and defense.
There’s no reason to doubt the Truth of Leggette’s POV, that doubling he and McMillan will be difficult. Any footage of the AZ All-American looks like a physical overmatch on size, especially when he high-points many receptions, and his yards after catch are substantial. As a 227-pound speed burner, Leggette is more basic than saying ex-Panthers favorite DJ Moore was ‘tough to get on the ground,’ whether he’s tough to catch, he’s statistically easier (less YAC) to get on turf than a speedy/studly guy should be.
Expectations for improved concentration and hand-catching vs. body is a definitive second year goal, and camp coaching plus Leggette’s attention to task, will be evident. Naysayers regarding XL’s Must Achieve production or risk being lost in WR group are dumb, that he’ll become a lesser option for targets because of Panthers wealth on that front, what ‘many less’ constitutes in an expanded playbook with better personnel, the fannies haven’t seen anything to base a bust tag on.
Offensive Coordinator Brad Idzik was solid on fact of 2025 as second time around in same system after a couple years of plug-play adjustments himself, before coming from Tampa Bay with Head Coach Dave Canales last year. Don’t expect Panthers will abandon an excellent offensive line operation with Chuba Hubbard at core of ball control to sling footballs around BOA Stadium.
Expectations for improved concentration and hand-catching vs. body is a definitive second year goal, camp coaching plus Leggette’s attention to task will be evident. Naysayers regarding Xavier Leggette’s Must Do production or be exiled to end of WR line are dumb. His becoming a lesser option for targets because of McMillan and Panthers wealth on that front, what ‘many less’ constitutes in an expanded playbook with better personnel, the fannies haven’t seen anything to base a bust tag on.
6/1/25 – GlennS. Just sayin,’ I saw Xavier doing a pre-Kentucky Derby interview, and whether he was coached on speaking slower or not, IMHO, no great effort was required to understand him. Now, Jerry from poker, when he gets excited, even though I know I asked him something, yikes! (If you pay attn, XL does fine in this 12 min. clip)
Panthers GM Dan Morgan made Leggette his first Big Boy decision, trading up with Buffalo to draft Leggette in first round, when *everyone* knew Panthers didn’t have a #1 pick going in. That’s not a pressure point, nor is McMillan. He understands and is practicing exactly what coaches emphasize, that becoming a better receiver entails instead of what sort of fantasy football numbers he generates.
In the bigger Carolina Panthers picture, the off-season improvement of Ejiro Evero’s defense got the lion’s share of emphasis with free agent signings, then Tet-Mc’s semi-surprising pick at #8, and the anticipation of the WR1 the NFL world knew they sorely needed probably AFTER they got another defensive asset, but Sports Illustrated and I are on same wave about XL’s higher productivity potential.
Could elevating his stats from 49/496 yds/4TD to 70/750/7 TDs ever be considered a negative? If both reached over 1,000 yds., would anyone doubt they’d be a playoff team? https://www.si.com/nfl/panthers/nfl-analyst-names-2nd-year-wr-panthers-top-summer-breakout-candidate-01jwrj1pfb51 His YAC wasn’t exceptional (112.3 yds. ranked #92) for his documented speed. Carolina Panthers fans will recall Curtis Samuel’s crazy speed (4.31 in 40) for several years, and going free agency after one full season of injury-free production. As noted, at 6’1″, 227 highly motivated pounds, so catching AND on the ground equation changes when he catches in stride.
Catch, then be Special. – HC Dave Canales, early comment about Leggette’s catching.
I really do like the hat, here at Travers in Saratoga. GM Dan Morgan and I both have jaws, his FA signings in ’25 are looking about as good as me.
Thinking Panthers GM Dan Morgan has set DC Ejiro Evero’s defense up right already, with an honest to God nose tackle and hitting machine of a linebacker (135 tackles, 11 starts in 2024) named Rozeboom, and there’s still $$$ in the checkbook, so…
Whew! barely covers the first handful of Free Agent signees, and Morgan still plucked a jewel of a second running back from Dallas’ eye by adding Rico Dowdle https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4038815/rico-dowdleto improve Bryce Young’s potential targets. $16MM for two years of Tommy Tremble’s future is part of fuller tight end-running back rooms that HC Canales stated was run-first in Year One. Mission accomplished by Hubbard, who was everything Panthers wanted from leadership, and well worth rewarding contract-wise.
Good blockers who catch footballs? Fannies have been waiting (for anything close to Ghost of Greg Olsen), would Canales et al dare take that TE from Penn State? $16MM for Tremble and J’Tav Sanders already here says maybe not, three’s a crowd.
Rozeboom from Rams is a bona fide stud, up through the ranks quickly – Noo-buddy! gets to question Morgan’s ability to judge prime football talent AND get it back to the cave. And then there’s Tilis.
3/13/25 GShork on Panthers GM early success shoring up Defense and keeping their own FAs.
The literally biggest, at 6’4″, 332 lbs. of the FAs is Bobby Brown III, who signed on for 3 yrs/$21MM; DL Tershawn Wharton (3 yrs. /$45MM) and Patrick Jones II (3 yrs/$20MM), plus Safety Tre’von Nehrig (3 yrs/$51MM) who is a genuine thumper in the back line. Is that working or not? JC Horn’s 4 yr./$100MM is possibly an out-sized contract extension after first healthy year of lock-down reputation. I recall Horn getting three PIs against Chiefs and it was considered excellent, but $100MM, its #MrTeppers$.
Panthers defense was particularly woeful in the line without Derrick Brown, and giving up over 3,000 yards was legitimate burn, sorry Shy. Let’s just clarify the Worst part though – It was ONE POINT more at 534 than previous record, which was in a 16 game season (Colts, 533). Leave WORST at the door (32.5), life wasn’t good at all. Putting big bodies in with Mr. Brown in Ejiro Evero’s 3-4, that is the difference maker that WILL change absolutely everything.
Yes, expectations! of becoming a much better unit front to back started with a whoosh this week.
It’s Thursday, Dan is always in the discussion
A’Shawn Robinson had a bunch of sacks, then wore out with constant use against run, Rozeboom is a bona fide stud, up through NFL ranks quickly https://pantherswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/panthers/2025/03/13/nfl-free-agency-panthers-christian-rozeboom-nickname/82384733007/ – but Noo-buddy! gets to question Morgan’s ability to judge prime football talent & get at least his fair share back to the cave. Will Trevon Wallace benefit from watching some (a ton) of film with Kuechly? NO DOUBT. Leggette with Stevie SuperStar? Again, have to believe that would be a goodness, even if he couldn’t turn Mingo into a route runner AND catcher.
Are the Panthers actually paying a premium, or has #MrTeppers$ become a non-factor? By all accounts, certain players are coming for Evero, previous experience positives https://www.panthers.com/team/players-roster/a-shawn-robinson/ Morgan showed he wasn’t actually a newbie last year just sitting in the big chair, getting an A-1 prospect in 1st round (Leggette) AND regaining a #2 pick for this year for openers. Verdict: Very much like Commanders rising from ashes, and Detroit as proof of scaling tough history, Success takes time and coordination. It is very definitely the Panthers defense’s time.
The old saw is that offensive lines get talked about until there ISN’T a concern-problem, and by all accounts, Christensen is a bargain-plus, https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44210919/brady-christensen-agrees-deal-panthers, Mayes, Corbett (back from another injury year) are considered as a unit to be super-solid. Ensuring Bryce Young’s pocket safety (29 sacks, didn’t play 5 games) was a primary improvement of last free agency, and he scored six TDs, none of the Cam reaching the football over the goal line from HERE variety.
From thirty-four out means people are watching out for you. Trust is earned, there is a Leader, several of them in fact. Sunshine and joy in Charlotte? NC sunshine seldom leaves, and organizationally-speaking, Good is still the enemy of Great, but its still too early for philosophy. https://www.jimcollins.com/article_topics/articles/good-to-great.html
Salty lines love drive blocking, Chuba Hubbard and ANOTHER 1,000 yard guy who catches passes, yes, Panthers have a better batch of players coming to town, three year contract guys, not just ‘prove its.’ They did that elsewhere to everyone’s satisfaction in football brain trust here, go with it.
Morgan has talked early about excising emotion from In/Out decisions, and Shaq Thompson’s injuries finally put him over the bubble, even after buyer friendly terms last year. There was a single too-early rush about getting a certain nose defender who decided to take a bunch of Patriots money instead, and okay, as best practices Dan was in on that, and not long after, things worked out better on budget overall, thank you Bobby Brown III and Tershawn Wharton. By the time this blog-information gets read, you shouldn’t bet against more goodness happening.
The personnel is clearly better
Will Charlotte-Carolina people get crazy-hyped about Panthers resurrection of pride? No rush to judgement, but first batch of Year Two from Morgan has plenty of A-1 heft to it. Between today and first practice to see who’s who of additions to those bloodied and beaten through combat in the ring last year, there will be plenty of names forgotten as unnecessary.
Whatever I’ve said about Cam never throwing a receiver open, or putting a rainbow out there for Leggette or whomever to run underneath, its a part of the offense now. Stopping people from doing whatever they had in mind (almost certainly RUNNING the ball) is already a solid defensive proposal. Thanks Dan!
As a potential reporter on events of Season 2 of Canales, Morgan, Tilis (no #MrTeppers$), I’m okay with not having to visit training camp in the literal cauldron that Spartanburg was. The two times I journeyed to the Wofford campus, once to specifically see DJ Moore and C-MC, yow! This is what a best practices, successful rebuild should-does look like.
I was in Tampa ’81-’82 when the Selmon brothers, specifically LeRoy, who was All-Pro dominator-level defensive end in the day, Huuuugh! Green at other D-end (so fast, relentless), definite icon QB Doug Williams, and former USC star running back Anthony Davis, went all the way to NFC championship game, worst to first. My cousin Frank Ball was a drummer in Bucs band, for $5 I didn’t even use press credentials with ITS SPORTS! to get into Rowdies soccer games.
There’s that bitty little buzz in Charlotte, and just sayin’ – its NOT the Hornets https://www.espn.com/nba/team/_/name/cha/charlotte-hornets– but believing fans will be packing the Panthers practice site downtown this summer, when the new people are viewed as absolute positives (not like Diontae…), they’re mostly back and already happier.
This is the most legitimate time to put one of those forever memorable pictures on display. I’ll probably put a Christmas ‘display’ vs. just a tree next time.
Assuming fellow Panthers game watchers saw the same plays, with QB Bryce Young getting whacked *twice* as he got off successful passes to Tommy Tremble and a drop in the bucket TD to David Moore, I was smiling myself when he peeled himself off the turf, and pretty much laughed about it to one of his linemen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aZgXMwYy5fE
When you make a mistake on throws, like Arizona Cardinal QB Kyler Murray did on an interception (after being past the line of scrimmage), you hang your head on the bench. When you’ve done enough good work that smiling a lot after a heavy lick comes naturally again, that is Bryce now, not a colossal failure some painted him when the 2021 Heisman winner joined a team with very little talent, taking 62 sacks along the way to 2-15 record.
That said, the best thing beside Chuba Hubbard going for 25/152 yards and a pair of TDs (one the OT winner) was Cardinal RB James Conner being injured in 3rd period and not continuing his rampage, which ended after 15/117 yds/TD, plus 4 catches for 49 yds.
I said exactly that (technically, just ‘whew!’ as he stood on sidelines) when Cards scored last 10 pts. of regulation to tie things up. Conner is a beast, and it seems *everyone* they play is capable of carrying a couple Panthers tacklers for 6-12 more yards after contact.
Panthers GM Dan Morgan can fix that in off-season, right? Ahhhh, expectations!
HELL YES! on Bryce’s running (Chuba even more so)
Anyone who questioned Chuba receiving a four year, $33MM contract a couple weeks ago, who wonders why a team with their won-lot record is rewarding anyone, they couldn’t have been watching many games. Hubbard had 250 carries for 920 yds/5 TDs during last year’s disaster, and now has 1195 yards and 10 touchdowns. That’s a humble producer you want to keep happy, and it sends a signal league-wide about doing and deserving. Same with kicker Eddie Pinero, who missed a PAT in the game, but has also had a season (21/24) worth rewarding.
Panthers two early TDs were on 70-yard drives, and the ball control aspect of Hubbard’s running used up plenty of clock this year. 6’6”, 330-pound free agent guard Robert Hunt, and LG Damien Lewis proved to be $$$ well spent, as offensive line has been a strength when everyone else got injured.
The joy of watching Young take off for an untouched 34-yard jaunt early, then take off again for 23 yards and a touchdown was wonderful after seeing him steadily being beaten on for two seasons. As color commentator Mark Schlereth noted, when everyone’s back is to you in 1-1 coverage, you can pick up a lot of yardage. Panthers kept Kyler Murray in check (8 carries/63 yards) by clogging the middle so he didn’t escape upfield like Bryce.
Yes, it’s good to see plays work as needed. There was a flag next to spot where Hubbard made a block to keep a defender off Young on TD run, but penalty turned out to be on defender, so un-standard Panthers luck. Young scored early in first period in a small front corner of end zone, exactly where Moore caught his touchdown in 4th period, barely a foot from the boundary, with a defender draped across his back.
Those plays were an elemental difference from a LOT of Panthers experiences in 2024. (ie.- Thielen’s catch in end zone denied vs. Bucs, best defensive player Derrick Brown gone after first game, Diontae J.)
Yes, it would have been great to see what Brooks could’ve contributed, now he’s a project for 2025, good thoughts sent for another tough rehabilitation program on ACL that failed.
Bucs, Atlanta on the road, end of 2024
The Buccaneers played well against the Cowboys Sunday night in a 26-24 loss, leaving Atlanta and Tampa Bay tied with 8-7 records for the NFC South leadership. Charlotte may enjoy a spoiler role in who makes the playoffs, because Panthers play Tampa Bay this week, Atlanta to end the season Jan. 5th.
Michael Penix, Jr., the Washington Huskie QB Atlanta surprisingly selected at #8 in 2024 draft, has taken over for Kirk Cousins, and the lefty-slinger put up a solid 18/27, 202 yds/1 INT line that satisfied many, though fans had expected more from the $160 million ($100MM guaranteed) money Cousins got. Achilles surgery last year left him less capable of moving well on play action passes that were his bread and butter, but his career has been profitable and productive.
If Sam Darnold might be leaving Minnesota because he’ll want BIG $$$ (Mayfield got 3 yrs/$100MM after a season of Dave Canales ‘QB Whisperer’ in Tampa) after taking Vikings to 13-2 and tied with Detroit Lions for division lead, they’ll decide in last game of year. Cousins is not in that same space any more.
Will Panthers make it a three-game win streak to end the season? That would give them 6 for the year, beating the experts 5.5 predictions. (FYI – +600 I’ve previously mentioned is based on $100 bet, I’m only betting $20, so better beer in my microeconomy, not champagne, would be the celebration v. 20 x 600 craziness)
Let’s just say that Panthers are nowhere near the laughingstock-worst team in the NFL they were labelled most of last two seasons.
Panthers, Bears, Jets are 4-12 (Well, 4-11 Bears play Seahawks TH) What a disappointment *that* team was with Caleb Williams! Rookie QBs, who knew they aren’t all world-beaters? Maybe someone in Chicago should take a beating for shoveling Justin Fields onto the garbage heap (well, traded to Pittsburgh) because he didn’t make progress there as an NFL QB despite terrific physical skills.
Patriots, Raiders, Browns, Jags, Titans are all 3-12, Giants are 2-13, so there are nine other (of 32) teams in same or worse shape than Panthers. How’s THAT for something to put a little kick in your holiday eggnog?
Still my classic Panthers picture, Year 1 at Clemson vs. 49ers, Sam Mills on way to stopping Steve Young. Team is still working that Keep Pounding theme.
After LaMelo’s NBA season opening line of 38P/11A/8R, I questioned what level of production would be appropriate for Bryce Young to be considered as having a successful return to an NFL team’s leadership, how would on-field results look? Melo is injured again, but apples-to-apples, from a long time BoomerwithAttitude–sports writer’s POV, three beyond just solid games against Chiefs, Bucs, and Eagles are good by me.
Ex-Panther quarterback Sam Darnold painted the most prolific nyah-nyah!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SeAzU97p4JE on former Viking-now Falcon QB Kirk Cousins Sunday, but in belly-of-the-beast fanwise Philly, Young again moved the Panthers decisively, going 19/34 for 191 yards, 1 TD/INT against first-caliber, NFL playoff-bound competition, going down to a single play at the end yet again, another L on bottom line.
Mostly. And I don’t hear all that much complaining by fan base.
Walking back for southbound rail after Tampa Bay game till now, I’m not delusional about recognizing, yes, it’s a very different team last four games, with confident NFL QB play and others doing their jobs. How Chuba extended his arm with ball for 1st down early in final drive for OT in Bucs game, instead of just going out of bounds (then dammit! later fumble, same level of effort). Adam Thielen showing the ball to someone on Bucs sideline who MUST have said No way! on one-handed-while-falling snag like I did in Sect. 524, but getting stiffed on that TD catch I saw and replay didn’t. Yes, it makes a difference to watch the game in happier circumstances than any recent experiences at BOA.
$15.95 for a Modelo Big Boy that stayed cold into 3rd quarter, I even tipped 15%. I was wearing 4 layers, won’t call it overkill, and on a nippy late afternoon, bless the dance team and yeah, the Purrcussion group of drummers. It wasn’t a full stadium, but it was Thanksgiving weekend, people out west who might attend are still in rough shape, not just cold or ungood record. If Panthers aren’t Our Team 100% right now, when?
Everyone is impressed by Josey Jewell, who has been everywhere. Trevin Wallace is finding a groove too, A‘Shawn Robinson, with a 1.5 sack day in Philly, even Saquon getting his, doesn’t mean everyone gets to run as far and free as Irving did for Bucs.
Sorrow for Brooks of course, but lately, hearing ‘worst in league’ noted, I want proof, so while Panthers scoring defense is last in NFL at 30.5 ppg, its down from right at 34 ppg. last month. They’re 30th (of 32) giving up real estate at 392.1 yds. per game.
And Helllooo, Dallas…
At 5-8, the Cowboys are in rougher shape than owner-standard bearer for willful, meddling old men, Jerry Jones, is willing to admit his franchise is mired in. He (apparently) won’t let lame duck Head Coach Mike McCarthy play QB Trey Lance instead of barely effective Cooper Rush, and while he still isn’t getting many props for it, #MrTeppers$ hasn’t opined about football operations since before free agency in March. 12/11/24 -A Tale of Two Teams Tango in 2024, our QB-owner guys are Okay-er.
If you caught the look of agony on Micah Parson’s face after Cowboys defense blocked a Bengals punt with less than two minutes left, and still turned ball over to Joe Burrow for the go-ahead score, note that the CarolinaPanthers have been to Super Bowls twice since Dallas last raised the trophy. It seems very likely that multi-billionaire Panthers owner David Tepper can see what ‘cantankerous’ looks like up close, so keep the discipline Mr. T. Getting to say, ‘Good game!’ while winning indeed counts, seems like things are aligned.
‘Gracious host’ is more often about bourbon choices, it has zero about getting to win on BOA turf. A painful, wincing handshake ‘n go, anything like after ‘boys getting thrashed by Packers in first round would satisfy…
Aside from Barkley getting a decent 124, and Eagles with 209 yards rushing overall, the Carolina Panthers defense has looked stronger, made more overall good stops, even better than Bucky Irving gouging them for 150+ and two walk-off field goals vs. Chiefs, Bucs might show. Holding Hurts to 108 yards passing- how many fantasy jockeys were betting on that leg? DC Ejiro Evero has kept better QBs than Cooper Rush from blasting Panthers recently, will Jaycee Horne and CeeDee Lamb going after it be an epic sort of afternoon? (Horne had three pass interference calls vs. KC, just sayin’.) Blitzes? Count on it.
Dallas shouldn’t be smiling at all about this visit, because whom is going up-Better could be defined. Some respect for three tight Panthers losses would be realistic, and just having Bengals yank their collective ‘nads HARD with that recovered block-game winning drive, well, we played Chiefs way better, but as some poet said, that (kind of loss) is gonna leave a mark. – GShork 12/12/24
Comparison shop Young’s stats, he isn’t a slinger yet, and what everyone has recently witnessed is, he’s not afraid to STICK one on a receiver either (ie. Moore, hopefully more with Leggette), and he’s spreading it around effectively – TEs Tremble and Sanders have made first career TD catches. With a QB doing right on LONG drives, shadow of the goalposts-15 play stuff, they’re still forced to overcome regular pre-snap flubs that make it tougher. Young has learned its okay to toss one away instead of trying to save a suddenly negative play. HC Canales mentioned that, although he tangles some actions in coach-speak at times.
You can’t miss the long-anticipated precise touch, or Young’s perceived-actual comfort of movement in the pocket, a direct result of GM Dan Morgan’s large free agent buy of guards Hood and Lewis early. Even though Austin Corbett was lost to injury after what was a successful move to center, the offensive line’s continuity has been a source of strength for Hubbard (over 1,000 after 26/92 yds. vs. Eagles, 8 TDs) and the rushing contribution Canales preached when he first arrived.
They’ve also only given up 22 sacks. That’s a fact worth putting out there by itself.
Leggette HAS to make the catches that this offense will rely on, is a best practices ultra-fact. Put that out there, just cuz.
Bandwagon?
Start with belief that GM Dan Morgan et al had assembled some front line players, especially with free agents, as offensive line got a pair of expensive, necessary guards, but O-line has played steadily-very well together, taking 100% full game snaps (71 vs. Philly) several times. Cade Mays has handled the protection and line calls while taking over for Austin Corbett, LT Ekwonu has regained his form, Moton is always business, *there hasn’t been 15 guards*, the tight ends both block and go downfield. (Yay! for Panthers icon Greg Olsen getting the color analyst gig this game.)
Fans are relatively happy about spiking Eagles while two TD underdogs, and A’Shawn Robinson with 4.5 sacks and Mr. Josey Jewell are welcome reinforcements, Horne is obviously taking matters seriously. My $20 bet is still six Ws, so I say Hellloo Dallas! and we’ll take care of Mr. Cousins and Baker soon as well. This new Team version, confident quarterback moving elements along, Panthers defense not getting rolled for 8-13 garbage yards after first contact, that’s just best practices in football.
Eddie Pineiro missed two opportunities against Tampa Bay that cost Panthers, made four against the Chiefs, 23/25 for season, and THAT’S how you ask for a raise. Innovative play calling by Canales, some freedom going for it on 4th down gutsiness, with Young triggering a play they both like, that’s a tinge of best practices as QB Whisperer, right?
A ‘W’, yes, that’d be extra okay too. Worried about losing out on #1 pick? That’s not a question for this Sunday.
‘Tis the season? Yes ’tis
Glad for previous tix, and yes, plenty of gratitude for things falling my way/best possible outcomes on MICROECONOMY front recently. I didn’t discuss politics at T’giving gathering, remarked to others I felt it was ok to wear Panther colors again. Charlotte people assembled were more concerned with family than QB play or what trashy/tragic political disagreements prez-elect is abusing for shock value.
I was thrilled about a Great T’giving around people enjoying blessings, then worked shifts Fri, Sat, Sun, Mon, TH at community groups Christmas tree lot. What better gig possible for positive affirmation all around, the ultimate family experience, a chance to speak well about years of this particular events history in the parish under primo Carolina blue skies and 61 degrees? If a Panther W went with another Sunday of gorgeous weather, pre-Christmas brisk though it might be, I’m willing to give Dallas the one point game is listed at.
Having always pointed to the Super Bowl season where Panthers were 9-0, then thumped the ‘Boys 31-14 on Thanksgiving, they were 10-0 before people here felt it was reasonable to start believing. Same deal Sunday, you want the bet, up to $5, respond by game time. Panthers 24-16.
The Panthers trainwreck 2-15 season won’t immediately and finally be put to rest, the team didn’t survive a death march through the usual cauldron of Spartanburg heat for training camp, and only a few prognosticators elevate expectations to even the 5.5 wins the oddsmakers have set. (My $$ is down on that, couple bucks on winning NFC South at +1100 is legitimate)
Today, against an NFC South Saints team with numerous flaws itself, I’ll go with Canales positive outlook and several on-the-money throws to those offensive additions Panthers need to produce a very acceptable WIN, not a Feel Good close loss.
YES! About JT, DJ, a Cool Canales, and #MrTeppers$
Writing in the shadow of a 1:00 season opener in New Orleans, few things matter more than seeing a revamped Panther offensive line keeping what is still an above-average Saints defense off of quarterback Bryce Young. Having survived – a very accurate assessment – a 62 sack first NFL season in Charlotte, almost every factor in free agency and draft was tied to improving his situation.
Starting with a pair of guards getting big $$$ as GM Dan Morgan’s first move, and a surprising 4th round pick to add a potential star (finally!) tight end like Ja’Tavian Sanders that changes the conversation of ‘Nothing since Olsen left,’ the naysayers will be able to breathe easier later this afternoon.
Contributions from the fast, studly Xavier Leggette, highly proficient route runner Diontae Johnson from Pittsburgh for about to be released Donte Jackson, the reliable veteran slot receiver Adam Thielen has always been (103 catches/1014 yds/4 TDs in 2023), and the emergence of Jonathan Mingo https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/4426485/jonathan-mingo as a threat should bring a dynamic change from last years weak (tied for NFL low) 13.9 scoring average.
IMHO, very few have given team owner David Tepper sufficient credit for letting Morgan, Head Coach Dave Canales, and Executive VP of Football Operations (‘the cap guy’ to many) Brandt Tilis, run his team without even dabbing a big toe in matters. While he’s still getting described as disruptive in national press, he hasn’t opined about ANYTHING that’s been done since March. If/when that changes about 4:00 this afternoon, nobody should blame him for going a little extra yackety-yak happy.
He won’t be projecting a division title, but he can allow himself to congratulate eeeeeverybody mentioned above for getting the once proud NFL franchise’s rebuild on righter track without having to sweat taking a major load of guano.
Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero stayed in Charlotte after a #4 rated year for Panthers defense that would have gotten him head coaching consideration in a lot of other league situations, and a well-deserved whew! for Morgan about that. The cabinet is not empty despite the drain of last years linebacking corps, but the return of veteran Shaq Thompson (8 years a Panther) from a season-ending ankle injury against Saints in a Monday Night game, and rising expectations of Kentucky product Trevin Wallace (6’1″, 244 lbs, 3rd round) as a reliable middle LB and A-1 banger/blitz problem will count heavily.
Extra Points (but not Pinero related)
The secondary seems to have become a personnel strength, and credit Morgan with using the Panthers status as first in line for anyone worth while that got to waiver status; he picked up *six* on cut-down day (90 to 53), meaning he had to bump several names from the 53-man roster who originally made the cut. S Jordan Fuller, formerly of LA Rams, was an easy pickup back in March, and fits exactly the size and experience profile Evero likes at the back end.
Several names, including S Demani Richardson, who had two picks in joint practices with the Jets and another in pre-season win over Bills; veteran Jordan Matthews, (32 ) a converted WR who was elevated to regular roster after a couple other TEs haven’t fully recovered from dings; and undrafted QB Jack Plummer (Louisville), who had a sterling effort against the Bills (21/29 for 278 yards, 2 TDs to Jalen Coker and Terrace Marshall Jr., one sack) to earn being kept, will be heard from soon. Okay, maybe not from Marshall, who is now in San Fran.
Second round stud RB Jonathan Brooks will be on PUP (physically unable to perform football duties) list until after fourth game of season. Not pushing him to return from torn ACL surgery last November means cutting someone when he returns, so last years mainstay at RB will continue to be Chuba Hubbard (238 carries/902 yds/4 TDs) in meantime. Austin Corbett, who had ACL surgery in 2022, didn’t play in 2023, and is now switched to center position on Panthers redone O-line. LT Ikem Ekwonu will shake his sophomore season negatives, while Taylor Moton has a 100 game long string of starts at right tackle.
Prediction: Having noted several times that Sanders at TE would be targeted in the red zone early, getting a start today moves my prediction up a game, from third to second at latest. His speed is rated as ‘just shy of elite,’ he’s a touch it-count it guy. If he’s watched enough of Olsen tapes to have a ninja ability about disappearing-reappearing to catch a pass for first downs, or break away for long gainers, he’s going to be a tough cover nightmare around the goal line every week.
Morgan will be viewed as a seer and not just lucky that Sanders somehow fell to #101 in draft, and when Brooks gets into lineup and defenses have to be concerned about him on play action, Young will gain valuable half-seconds to find his new, faster-better receivers, including Mingo, who often failed to separate from coverage in 2023.
Pinero was seen as a silent holdout who thought he deserved more $$$, but he’s not a long-range leg, and will never be mistaken for original franchise member-Panther legend John Casey (1995-2011, over 1400 points). Kicking situation is settled, in the short term at least.
QBs running and throwing because they *needed to,* thats how it USED to be for QBs on ungood teams got abused. Ask any Manning about Archie. A Legend, took that his whole career. Tampa for me was when the Bucs started getting some respect. Nobody forgets they started out 0-26.
The great Coach John McKay, who left a successful USC program to coach the expansion Tampa Bay Buccaneers, put it classically pithily, when asked what he thought of his team’s execution,
“I’d be for it.'”
So work with me on the analogy – like Bryce, I looked cool-clean in July (at Saratoga in Up-State NY)- but now its for real 2024. Looks good, meh, its still a john selfie. Getting some $$ on them, just in case, $10 on division, could be legit ? 8-9?
I was there a couple years later, 1980-82. Yeah, most called them the Suck-aneers, but 9-7, heroic stuff from their Before, Lost in 2nd round. My cousin Frank was in the band, I was a sport writer, Bucs and Rowdies soccer. I’ve seen pretty bad, Doug Williams was barely over 50% passing.
I’m not 100% convinced about Young’s worthiness, after one damn drive in preseason; mixed practices with the Jets was the O-line’s ‘don’t get hurt’ mentality until its For Real Blocking and Blitzes vs. Saints. It sure *sounded* like they’ve done a fine job of getting better personnel in camp, I trust GM Dan Morgan (with #MrTeppers$) no problem. Canales, fingers crossed about the Whispering.
Start taking the points, Panthers will probably always get, how many is enough? give them (or play 49ers?) I arrived in Charlotte in 1995, same as Panthers, and #1 fact worth stating again is always, until they went 10-0 by whipping Cowboys on Thanksgiving, almost nobody thought they were Super Bowl worthy. lol Amen! on the first shot out of barrel today (and my over 5.5 in short term).
Panthers scored TD at end of regulation, not getting to kick extra point (or playing many first teamers) wasn’t a problem. Vicky Bruce’s goal in 27th minute at refurbished ($41M) American Legion Memorial stadium was seen by 10,553 enthused spectators, and Knights hung a 5 spot in 4th inning fireworks, none after matinee game. On a 90 degree day, cold beer and well-played games were all you could ask for.
Forget about naysaying for just a little while Charlotte, although winning their inaugural game guarantees nothing for the first women’s pro sports team here since WNBA Sting folded in 2007. Saturday’s triple header sure beats the ‘Loserville’ tag our teams have earned while being blasted regularly the last couple years. Hornets only won 21 NBA games last season, Carolina Panthers were an often described as a dumpster fire while going 2-15 in 2023, and Triple AAA Knights, now 54-62, were a dismal 54-96 last year. Take the upswing on Knights being more competitive.
Panthers still not playing first teamers
For the fans who continue to sweat (sorry! its legit about Sat.) Head Coach Dave Canales still not putting starters (37 held out vs. Jets) on field in pre-season games, there is an expectation that changes against Buffalo Bills this Saturday. Cutdowns to 53-man roster are next Tues. (27th) and HC Canales has *got* to want to see Bryce Young and the offense working for real before season opener vs. Saints two weeks later.
Given the barrage of injuries throughout NFL camps, ie. Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy (torn meniscus) that will sideline the rookie from Michigan for 2024 season, Canales caution with expected starters is still outside usual NFL best practices.
The joint practices against Jets last week provided helpful indicators on progress. Jets QB Aaron Rodgers started slow with a pair of INTs, got back on track late with a TD pass during two-minute drill. Panthers QB Bryce Young was 14/22 on Thursday, 5/7 to five different receivers on his chance at two-minute drill, resulting in a FG. Eddie Pinero is the only kicker in camp now, so apparently he’s not getting any more than the $2.5M for year two of his contract like he desired.
Terrence Marshall, Jr. and second year receiver Jonathan Mingo seem to be assured of making the 53-man team off the intrasquad practices. Marshall’s TD in Jets practice left him giddy enough to drop the ball on his defender, a major reason for the teams dust-up during week. That $100M free agent Robert Hunt went down early in one practice was cause for concern, but he came back later, so whew! for offensive line and yes, points to Canales for holding starters out in another game. Panthers are better, but losing first line players (they had 15 people at guard positions in 2023) would be a killer.
RB Chuba Hubbard (238 carries, 902 yds, 5 TDs in 2023) went down awkwardly in practice but is judged okay, and Jonathan Brooks isn’t ready yet, but Dillon Johnson (18 carries, 89 yds., last second TD) looked fine. Panthers Jack Plummer was 11/18 for 42 yards, but HC Canales is truly pushing the running game aspect.
DB Demani Richardson’s late INT on Saturday capped a terrific week, with two others in practices. Despite DC Ejiro Eviro’s Panthers defense putting up somewhat gaudy numbers – 3rd in passing yardage, 4th in overall yardage, and 5th in third down efficiency in 2023 – they only had NINE TOs last year. Some ball-hawking in secondary, and increased respect for rookie Trevin Wallace’s banging people as MLB, Panthers looked more like an NFL team.
Knights played to few, Ascent FC before many
It was difficult to determine how close to their average attendance (6,000) the Knights were, because almost everyone took shelter in shade, but the Ascent fared much better with that enthused 10,553. Renee Guion’s free kick was headed by Annika Creel to a well-positioned Vicky Bruce, who tucked it away in the 27th minute against DC Power FC.
The Ascent will have 14 games in Aug.-Dec. part of season, then 14 more from Feb.-May, playing in USL Super League. That they drew such a crowd at other end of Charlotte from Panthers game is a hopeful sign. Sorry, didn’t see that game, can’t say a ton about it.
What’s in the cards for 2024 Carolina Panthers? Not all answers will be made clear after a pre-season game, but count on them being more watch- and bettable. Willing to reinvest more of my NY casino winnings, what’s over-under on TE Sanders for TDs?
Enormous rain in Charlotte from Debby is no problem, game in New England will be closely watched by all. (Well, depending on Olympic schedule; US-Brazil women’s VB figures to be killer.) Holding out Young so maybe he doesn’t get broken ‘for nothing’ doesn’t sound right; give HC Canales extra rope on who-what-when at this point. Start the season clock, big Nexts will be 53-man roster (Aug. 27th) and opener vs. Saints (Sept. 8).
When assessing the Panthers brain trust during free agency and draft, the poker axiom ‘You can’t win everything in first couple pots, but you CAN lose it that quick,’ is still legitimate now that first preseason game is here. Head Coach Dave Canales knows as well as anyone that proving definite operational changes are as positive as his outlook is constantly described, will count. Nothing could say Tah-dah! better than Young going vertical and tagging one, or several, of those new receivers. But not this week.
Can Panthers run the ball?
While Young’s development will always be front and center consideration, Canales stated offensive plans revolve around running the ball effectively. “Every team I’ve been on, we used all of our running backs at different points because it’s such a violent position,” states the case, and he’ll have full tight end (9) and WR rooms (9) with 90 bodies in camp.
#2 pick Brooks isn’t expected to be available for another two months (post-Achilles surgery). Yes, surgery was reason the Texas product was available. Leave CMC out of any discussions on injury front, when Brooks is ready, we’ll know about it.
The new guard tandem of Robert Hunt-Damian Lewis and center Austin Corbett can’t be one-dimensional QB protectors, seeing Ikem Ekwonu put 3-4 people on their keesters would be uplifting, nothing better than Chuba Hubbard getting thirty-five yards on a half-dozen carries (2023 avg. 3.9/carry) out of the gate tonight. If Sanders put four good carries together, people would be less inclined to point at his $25.4M contract (in Year 2 of 4).
Playing many of the lesser names (Canales eventually held out about 30 players) is 99% the rationale for pre-season, and ‘Lets see what we’ve got’ has to include those here for last year’s 2-15. A lot of personnel is being re-evaluated, Legette (foot concern) and Brooks, like Young, are being handled carefully. GM Morgan has a plethora of Others to dial up immediately, but there will be now be film to watch and names to forget-replace at a steady clip.
RBs – Hubbard (4), Brooks, Sanders (6), Blackshear (3), D. Johnson, Jaden Shirden, Mike Boone (7)
WRs – Diontae Johnson (6), Legette, Marshall (4), Mingo (2), Moore (6), Smith-Marsette (4), M. Strachan (4), Thielen (11), Thompkins (3)
Defense will have opportunities
Patriots were a decently strong defense up front last year, and they’ve given safety Jabril Peppers a 3 yr./$24M contract based on last years strong work. Panthers should be motivated to physically move people every chance they get, pre-season doesn’t earn a participation trophy. ‘Coach wants ground game, we do ground game!’ is order of the day. HC Canales has made it clear the lack of pre-snap discipline at FanFest at Clemson last week can’t/better not be best he gets.
Both offenses will be looking to prove they can run against the other, and Panther fans will be looking for Jadeveon Clowney to become enough of the ‘generational talent’ he was drafted as out of South Carolina. Its Year 11 on his physical clock, and he’s always been more of a beast against the run than truly overwhelming pass rusher. None of that changes with a pre-season game appearance (or not).
We’ll see how DC Evero uses his very different personnel in 2024, but Derrick Brown HAS to duplicate his feats of last year (57 solo tackles, 103 overall, 2 sacks) to move the Panthers defense up the overall rankings – they got scored on a lot without giving up sustained drives for a #3 rating.
Nobody can predict whether betting on Jaycee Horn will become a consistent terror in coverage or guy (still) walking the bench area during games is good idea. Just sayin’.
Even Canales would be hard pressed to out-positive that.
Results $$ during March Madness were good on FanDuel, I’d invested a lot of time on Big East watching (beyond UConn). I’m going to be an expert on understanding-writing Panthers season, and hugely talented Olympic athletes aside, football, including college, is where the meat is for sports books. Yes, I’ve got early $50 on Panthers (+800 consensus over several sites) for the NFC South.
CDTalent Enterprises 