Matt Rhule took over the Carolina Panthers in the NFL after coaching three seasons at Baylor University.
Much is expected of him by Panthers owner David Tepper given his impressive stint with the Bears.
Unfortunately, his debut season didn’t develop well.
Running back Christian McCaffrey suffered an injury three games into the season.
The loss of their main offensive weapon had the Panthers struggle to a 5-11 finish, which was third in the NFC South.
But the 2021 season shows renewed optimism from Rhule and the Panthers.
McCaffrey is back, and Sam Darnold replaces Teddy Bridgewater at quarterback.
Only time can tell how these developments will unfold.
However, changes are in order if they want to clinch their first winning season since 2016.
3. Making Every Player Accountable
The Panthers are a young team with limitless talent.
But for them to take the next step, they must be held responsible for their actions.
They have a chance to crack into the postseason if they fire from all cylinders.
The New Orleans Saints are in a transition period after Drew Brees’ retirement.
So are the Atlanta Falcons who remain an enigma of a team.
No wonder they have a mantra in their training camp: “Don’t Beat Ourselves.”
Matt Rhule talks to the media after Monday's practice https://t.co/48MMshiMRj
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) August 9, 2021
In an article by ESPN’s David Newton, a sign with “DBO” is present on the training field.
Players who commit mistakes in practice will have to run from their position to the sign and back.
It’s that attention to detail that Rhule and the Panthers must maintain to stay on the same page.
Otherwise, they are prone to commit costly mistakes.
The Panthers ranked 12th in penalties per game last season with 5.94.
Worst, their 39 infractions on either third or fourth down trailed only the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 41.
Hence, Rhule must instill disciplined football if they are to improve in his second year at the helm.
2. Customize The Offense For Darnold
Darnold never felt that he was the man in his young NFL career.
He held the reins of the New York Jets, but his position was on shaky ground.
Therefore, Rhule must impart confidence to his new quarterback by making the offense work to his strengths.
He does like to sling the ball downfield which will benefit Robby Anderson, D.J. Moore, and Terrace Marshall Jr.
1⃣-handed grab for 1⃣1⃣ pic.twitter.com/paw6obAQx7
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) August 9, 2021
Even if he goes into a slump, Rhule must maintain confidence in his guy.
It’s the break that Darnold is waiting for.
With improved weapons around him, he is ready to take off.
1. Intensify The Defense
Winning a football game banks heavily on stopping the opponent, especially when it matters.
Sadly, the Panthers didn’t do much of that last season.
They gave up 360.1 yards per game and also allowed the fourth-most third-down conversions per game at 6.1.
The Panthers also gave up 239.1 passing yards and 24.9 completions per game.
Doing the math, that’s almost 10 yards per attempt.
Rhule and the Panthers cannot be competitive with such numbers.
First play of 7-on-7 in RZ, Sam Darnold pass deflected by Jaycee Horn, intercepted by Jermaine Carter. So three picks and an assist for Horn this camp.
— Bill Voth (@PanthersBill) August 9, 2021
Thus, their defense must step up and play with intensity.
They cannot quit on any snap because it can leave a man open.
Likewise, they must impart pressure on their opponents because they only had 1.8 sacks per game (sixth-worst in 2020).
Rhule and the defensive coaches must come up with more blitz packages that will keep the opposition flustered and guessing.
If they can do that, the Panthers will claw their way to more victories.
NEXT: Sam Darnold Contract: What Would A New Deal Look Like?