>..none of the off season moves made by carolina appear to
>address that porous defense

Carolina's Defense was 10th in the NFL...That's a little far from porous...their biggest weakness was stopping the Run and drafting some DTs in the first two rounds should help.

>its almost as if they actually believe all those "tough
>losses" in the last minutes of each game should suggest that
>they're moving in the right direction.

They actually do believe it...The new GM could have easily blow this team up...easily...he decided not to...

>cam needs some serious help, and it starts with the coaching
>staff.

If Ron doesn't make the playoffs, Cam will get the help...but Ron coaches well when his back is against the wall...