Panthers' Struggle to Capitalize on Success Threatens NFC South Playoff Hopes
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The Carolina Panthers are still figuring out how to handle success, and it's costing them dearly. Despite victories over top teams like the Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Rams, the Panthers continue to falter in games they're expected to win. Their latest setback came against the New Orleans Saints, where they blew a fourth-quarter lead and lost 20-17. This defeat leaves the Panthers on the outside looking in at the playoff picture, with a 7-7 record and a tiebreaker disadvantage against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Panthers' struggles can be attributed to their young team's inexperience in winning big games, according to head coach Dave Canales. He pointed out that when a team starts winning, it tends to draw more attention from opponents, requiring a higher level of focus and execution. Carolina's failure to convert a crucial fourth-down attempt in the fourth quarter was a turning point in the game. If they had succeeded, it would have given them a two-score lead. The Panthers' inability to win games they're favored to win is a recurring theme. They've lost 12 consecutive games as betting favorites, a streak that dates back to the 2021 season. Their quarterback, Bryce Young, poses a challenge for opponents due to his small stature, which limits their ability to run the tush push. The Panthers' defense also struggled, particularly against Saints wide receiver Chris Olave, who burned cornerback Jaycee Horn for a long touchdown pass and a game-tying score. Canales attributed the defense's disjointed performance to the Saints' tempo during the game-tying drive. On a positive note, wide receiver Jalen Coker is rounding into form, with 10 catches for 134 yards in the last two games. The Panthers will need to regroup and refocus for their remaining two games against the Buccaneers, which could determine their playoff fate.
