NFL Takeaways: Cam Newton Offense Looking Thin
By Erik Lambert
Aug 22, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) gets run over by New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) in the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
The fears centered on the offense put around Cam Newton appear validated. Here are some other takeaways from NFL action.
Kelvin Benjamin won’t solve Panthers problems
There is no doubt rookie receiver Kelvin Benjamin has talent, but the rookie can only be expected to do so much. The roots of the problem with the Carolina Panthers offense go deeper than that. Their offensive line hasn’t looked the same since last season and Cam Newton is paying the price for it. His protection has diminished and his pass targets remain thin. If they can’t run the ball consistently, this team is in trouble.
It’s time for Ndamukong Suh to go
He continues to insist he isn’t a dirty player and yet Ndamukong Suh seems hell bent on proving himself wrong every week. The erratic defensive tackle, for all his talent, is a stain on the image of the Detroit Lions and the NFL as a whole. His most recent late hit against Jaguars quarterback Chad Henne only validated that further. Forget the fines and the slaps on the wrist. It’s time to send a louder message, as in kick him off the team.
Starting Chad Henne over Blake Bortles is a mistake
Speaking of Henne, while it’s easy to feel for him after taking that shot, the recent announcement by Jacksonville that he will be the starter in the regular season is a mistake. Yes, he’s more experienced but frankly rookie Blake Bortles has outplayed him in the preseason. Typically when that happens the best thing to do is hand him the keys and start learning how to drive as soon as possible. The Jaguars want him to learn from the bench, but Bortles is good enough to go now, and he should.
Rashad Jennings and Andre Williams will be the next one-two punch
The true depths of the New York Giants offense in 2014 remains a mystery with key receiver Odell Beckham Jr. still out. However, one thing that has become clear is they may have a new one-two punch at the running back position with veteran Rashad Jennings and rookie Andre Williams. Both have had standout preseasons and together in week three they amassed 116 yards and a touchdown in the Giants’ 35-24 win over the Jets. If this continues into the regular season, New York may be on the rebound offensively.