CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – SEPTEMBER 12: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Bank of America Stadium on September 12, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
The Carolina Panthers and Christian McCaffrey were seeking that first win in 2019. That did not go according to plan on a short week.
Christian McCaffrey is a golden goose when it comes to fantasy football. He was my personal first-round pick this year and he was a huge contributor in Week 1.
That was not the case in Week 2 as he only rushed for 37 yards and finished with two receptions for 16 yards. He didn’t exactly fulfill his normal expectations.
Thursday night games are always a crapshoot when it comes to predictions. Everyone is on a short week and gameplans are adjusted for injuries and lack of proper preparation.
McCaffrey is one of those players who is supposed to break through such tough qualifiers.
He had his chance on the final offensive play of the game for the Carolina Panthers. The team lined up in a trick formation, with Cam Newton split out to the right, and McCaffrey faked a reverse in order to run left.
The Bucs didn’t bit and McCaffrey came up short. After what seemed like hours of reviews.
He missed out on his elusive touchdown and the Panthers dropped to 0-2. Not an ideal start for the team and for McCaffrey alike.
I am personally freaking out after this start for McCaffrey and the Panthers. But fantasy owners should not be panicking. Thursday night games are rough and McCaffrey is going to bounce back after a rough performance.
The bigger issue for the Panthers is the play of Cam Newton. Then there is the 0-2 record and the fact the team is already 0-2 at home.
McCaffrey should be fine. The Panthers may not be fine. But as a fake fantasy expert myself, a rough night from any player is always a quick sign of concern. The Panthers may have been better off running a traditional formation in an attempt to win the game.