Coaching, Not Talent, Cost the Panthers on Sunday

Sunday’s game against the Saints should not have shocked anyone who has watched this team all season. What was shocking was Ejiro Evero’s outright refusal to adjust defensively at the end of the game, and even more surprising was Dave Canales allowing it to continue. What did they think was going to happen when you are conceding 12 to 15 yards per play?

Yes, the penalties hurt, but poor coaching decisions ultimately cost the Panthers their outright lead in the NFC South. I never believed this was a true playoff team, even during the last several weeks. Playoff teams show some level of consistency, and this team simply does not have it.

I expect the Panthers to split with the Buccaneers, but only because Tampa Bay is likely to rest starters in Week 18, not because Carolina has suddenly turned a corner.