Carolina Panthers vs. Indianapolis Colts: 4 Adjustments Carolina Should Make

In a year that has displayed so much promise for the Panthers, there have also been some real lows—and last week may have been the lowest.

Staked to a lead against the Lions, Carolina and rookie QB Cam Newton managed to give it all back and go home with yet another loss. At this point, Panthers fans, it might be good to remember that Troy Aikman was 1-15 in his first year as a starter, and Peyton Manning was 3-13.

And if Carolina is going to pick up its third win of the year, it won't get any easier than today against the 0-10 Colts.

If Carolina can make these five adjustments, they can win the one game all year they're really supposed to win.

No. 1: Get Cam Out of the Pocket

All year, we've said the Panthers need to do a better job protecting Cam.

All QBs are susceptible to making poor decisions under pressure, but it's doubly true for rookies. Last week's game against the Lions convinced me that the Panthers—as they are currently constructed—are useless at consistently providing a pocket for Newton to pass from.

The Panthers ran the option on the first play of the game, and some of their most successful plays in the first half have come as a result of Newton scrambles. In the second half, Carolina should run more designed bootlegs, QB waggles, draws and even options to keep Cam moving.

The Colts can't hit what they can't catch. 

No. 2: Be Creative Getting the Ball to DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart

One of the major holes in the Panthers' offense has been its inability to provide a consistent second option for Newton after Steve Smith.

Why not utilize Williams and Stewart more in the passing game? Teams like the Saints with Darren Sproles and the Bears with Joe Forte are adept at putting their RBs in space through the passing game.

If the Panthers can get Williams and Stewart open in the flat, though screens or even lining them up in the slot and running short routes, it would give Newton a safety valve to get the ball out quickly, AND it would put the ball in the hands Carolina's (other) explosive weapons.

No. 3: Target Brandon LaFell 

See point No. 2.

With teams increasingly keying in on Steve Smith, the Panthers should target up-and-coming WR Brandon LaFell more. LaFell has shown flashes of being the kind of slot receiver that the Patriots and other successful teams have made popular.

He's caught three passes inside the two-minute warning, and he should continue to be a focal point in the second half.

No. 4: Stack the Line

Let's face it, Curtis Painter probably isn't going to hurt you.

Carolina's rushing defense is one of the worst in the league. Today, they're struggling to contain Donald Brown and the corpse of Joseph Addai. 

The Panthers should do everything in their power—including staking eight and even nine men in the box—to stop the run.

Force Painter to throw the ball and good things will happen for Carolina.