Hoo boy, what a game! The Panthers held their own against the defending Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs, in Arrowhead no less! I’m not big on the “good losses” idea, but that’s the type of loss that still leaves you energized and optimistic about the future of this team. The offensive in particular really performed well, in large part due to the return of Christian McCaffrey, who may or may not be available this week. Which is kind of important since the Panthers are hosting the division rival Tampa Bay Buccaneers who just got embarrassed in prime time.
Panthers offense
Teddy Bridgewater, despite his faults, balled out on Sunday. Sure, he missed a couple deep plays that appeared to be there for the taking, but he got over 300 yards and a couple scores through the air. He also had a jump-out-of-your-seat moment, diving for a first down after a mad scramble on 4th and forever. He did really well, especially considering the play of the offensive line. The left side of the line in particular will have to be better in order for this offense to really thrive.
Sunday’s game was also a welcome back (at least temporarily) for Christian McCaffrey, who picked up right where he left off before his injury. Unfortunately, he injured his shoulder against the Chiefs and may miss even more time. While Mike Davis did fill in well in CMC’s absence, he was not the featured back the first time these two teams played. If Davis is the guy, that will be a match up to watch.
The specialists on the outside played very well against the Chiefs, with Curtis Samuel and Robby Anderson in particular having pretty solid days. DJ Moore did not get many targets despite being on the field on nearly every offensive snap. Last time the Panthers played the Bucs, DJ had himself a game: 120 yards on eight catches. If the Panthers can spread the ball around and get DJ involved again this time around, then the offense could be even more effective.
Bucs defense
The last time these two teams played, Teddy Bridgewater was under fire all game. The Bucs managed five sacks and seven QB hits, including a couple sacks from Ndamukong Suh and one from Jason Pierre-Paul. Both players missed practice time last week but are expected to play Sunday against the Panthers. This would not be good news for Teddy and Company.
The linebackers for the Bucs played really well in their last bout against the Panthers as well. Devin White and Lavonte David combined for 24 total tackles, a pass defended, a fumble recovered, and a QB hit. Those two are very talented and could take the game over again this weekend.
The Bucs defense also managed to pick off Teddy Bridgewater twice, one by Carlton Davis and one by Jordan Whitehead. While Drew Brees, Taysom Hill, and Company thoroughly crushed the Buccaneers defense this past week, so hopefully Joe Brady can find some patterns for the Panthers to use to their advantage.
Matchup
With Christian McCaffrey’s status in doubt, things could be tough for the Panthers offense. Back in Week 3, the Bucs held the Panthers scoreless in the first half while they built up a large lead. This allowed the Bucs pass rush specialists to go to town. If the Panthers want to avoid another outcome, they’ll need to get all three of their play makers at wide receiver involved. So far, there always seems to be one wide out who lags behind in production. Getting Moore, Samuel, and Anderson all involved early and often will help keep the Bucs defense on edge. Otherwise, this could be another long day.