Carolina Panthers deliver thrilling victory against Rams
The Carolina Panthers pulled off a remarkable 31-28 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13, showcasing a game plan that reflects the vision of head coach Dave Canales. This match served as a prototype for how Canales intends to guide the team to success week in and week out.
Ground Game Dominance
Central to the Panthers’ strategy was a relentless ground attack. Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle combined for an impressive 35 carries, racking up a total of 143 rushing yards. This effective run game not only kept the chains moving but also set the stage for manageable third- and fourth-down situations, as evidenced by the team’s nine third-down attempts, all requiring five yards or less.
Bryce Young’s Efficient Performance
At the helm of this offensive scheme was quarterback Bryce Young, who delivered a steady performance. His ability to make smart decisions and capitalize on the opportunities provided by the ground game was crucial for the Panthers. This balanced offensive approach allowed Carolina to maintain control of the game and keep the Rams’ defense on its heels.
Playing Time Insights
In a notable shift, Hubbard out-snapped Dowdle with a 56.7% to 45.0% advantage, marking a significant change in the backfield dynamics. For the first time in several weeks, Hubbard ran more than double the routes compared to Dowdle, indicating a potential strategic pivot in their usage. Dowdle’s share of designed carries was only slightly higher than Hubbard’s, suggesting that the team may be moving towards a more equitable timeshare in the running game.
This thrilling win not only highlights the potential of the Panthers under Canales’s leadership but also sets the stage for future matchups as they look to build on this performance.
