On Sept.16, Carolina whipped New Orleans, 35-27, in its 2012 season home opener.
That led to some premature confidence, as best expressed in this quote from Cam Newton after the game. "The vibe is changing," Newton said. "Not only for this team, but for this whole organization."
Well, no. It didn't. The Panthers didn't win again until November, and by then the season was in shambles and general manager Marty Hurney had lost his job. The team has since played well for the most part, going 4-1 over their last five games, but the terrible start means that the Panthers (6-9) will miss the playoffs for the fourth straight season.
New Orleans is also playing well now, but was likewise doomed by a poor start. The Saints have gone 7-4 since starting 0-4. Sunday's game probably won't look like a contest between two losing teams, but that's what it ultimately is.
-- In case you missed my earlier column, I am advocating that team owner Jerry Richardson give coach Ron Rivera a third year to try and get the team turned around. I believe Rivera has gotten better as a coach and that to change out the entire coaching staff again would be a "one step forward, two steps back" approach.
-- The Saints and Panthers have had very similar seasons in several respects besides the slow starts. They can play beautifully. They are responsible for both of 13-2 Atlanta's losses this season. And they can play horribly. They are also responsible for 2-13 Kansas City's two wins.
-- One thing about the Saints: they play entertaining football. Their average score this season is 28-27. The Panthers both score and allow about a touchdown less than that. I think this game will be a high-scoring season finale, and that Carolina will play just well enough to win its fourth straight game. My prediction: Carolina 37, New Orleans 33.
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9 years ago
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5 comments:
really appreciate the honest commentary on the Panthers. Here's to hoping for a win on Sunday.
How did we cause both of KC's wins this season when we only played them once?
I think the most telling play that means Rivera should stay was his decision to kick the 51 yard field goal to clinch the Oakland game. He would have punted earlier in the season, playing not to lose. He's grown since Marty Hurney was fired. The old saw that he stands like a statue on the sidelines was also negated after Hardy was penalized for knocking Carson Palmer out of the game. Rivera was hustling down the sideline to plead Hardy's case. I see more fire now. Keep Rivera.
@ Anonymous:
He meant that both the Panthers and the Saints caused the Chiefs victories as they were the only two teams that KC beat this season.
And I agree that Rivera should be given one more year. This is his first head coaching gig and he had to learn how to do the job as well. But if next year we have another season like this one, then out the door he goes.
Wow, Scott! Nice score prediction. You almost nailed it perfectly.
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