Panthers Must Take Advantage Of A Favorable Schedule In 2022

The quest for a new quarterback dominated the Carolina Panthers‘ offseason.

It was evident that they would like to move away from Sam Darnold but do not have many options.

They could have traded for either Jimmy Garoppolo or Baker Mayfield, but they don’t want another rental.

In the end, Darnold remains with the squad but they drafted Matt Corral in the third round.

Likewise, their first-round selection in Ikem Ekwonu could improve the protection around their quarterback.

Still, it’s hard to see the Panthers competing next season, especially if Christian McCaffrey misses more games.

Likewise, their NFC South rivals are miles away talent-wise.

But despite those unfavorable odds, the Panthers should take advantage of their favorable schedule.

The good news for the Panthers is four of their first five games are at home, with the only road game at the New York Giants. Carolina's never opened with that many home games the first five. Better make hay early.

— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) May 13, 2022

ESPN’s David Newton tweeted, “The good news for the Panthers is four of their first five games are at home, with the only road game at the New York Giants. Carolina’s never opened with that many home games the first five. Better make hay early.”

Last season, Matt Rhule’s crew jumped to a 3-0 start, making them the biggest surprise of the season.

Unfortunately, they came crashing down when McCaffrey suffered another injury, affecting Darnold’s performance.

In the end, the Panthers, lost 12 of their last 14 games to finish at 5-12.

Panthers Must Find Success Against Tough Opposition

While four of their first five games are at home, their opponents won’t be easy to defeat.

They will have a Cleveland Browns team with Deshaun Watson and Amari Cooper in Week 1.

The Panthers will also be facing the New Orleans Saints in Week 3 and the Arizona Cardinals in Week 4.

The San Francisco 49ers will be visiting them in Week 5.

Meanwhile, their only road game during that stretch will be against the New York Giants and it might be the easiest game of all.