The Carolina Panthers have undergone a dramatic transformation this offseason. The starting quarterback, the coaching staff and most of the defense has been turned over since the last time they took the field. How many games they win in 2020 will depend a great deal on how well some of the new key pieces perform in their respective roles.
Here are three big questions for the team to answer this year.
Is Bridgewater more than a game manager?
Teddy Bridgewater has big shoes to fill as he steps in for former league MVP Cam Newton as Carolina’s starting quarterback.
One advantage he has is experience with offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who worked with Bridgewater when he was an assistant for the Saints. For Bridgewater, the question is if he can change his reputation and become more than just a game manager. Since he came into the league, over 90 quarterbacks have posted a higher average depth of target. While there’s something to be said for taking what the defense gives you, aggressive passing is what truly wins games in today’s NFL.
Bridgewater has completed enough throws of 25-plus yards to prove he can do it, but he’ll need to do so more consistently in order to keep opponents from cheating against All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey. Bridgewater will have the weapons to do it, at least. The team’s new offensive weapons – especially Robby Anderson – are fast and adept at testing defenses deep. If Teddy can develop more ambitious instincts without sacrificing his sound decision-making, it should make the passing offense quite potent.