The Panthers take on the Falcons in their final game of the season.
The Panthers battered defense has one last trip to make before we can close the book on one of the worst season long performances in franchise history. Unfortunately; this one could be a long day for them again, as the Falcons are looking to continue a push for the playoffs and need to win this game to have any shot of making them. The Panthers will face a rookie QB this week. Let’s dive in.
Do what you can against the run
It has been repeated ad nauseam every week, but the Panthers defense needs to try its best to limit the opposing rushing attack. Last week, they allowed over 200 rushing yards to Bucky Irving and Rachaad White of the Bucs, and it doesn’t look to get any easier this week. The Panthers will face the combination of Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier, who also helped the Falcons come close to 200 yards rushing in their last encounter. They’ll presumably have another plus matchup this week, especially if Josey Jewell misses another game at LB for this banged up defense.
Get after Michael Penix
The Falcons are finally letting their rookie first round pick play football, and so far the statistics are about what you’d expect from a rookie in his first two full games as a starter. He has 463 yards passing, 1 TD, and 2 INTs in two starts and two appearances this season. Forcing the Falcons to rely on Penix to win will be easier said than done as I stated above, but if they can scheme up exotic looks to confuse the rookie, they might just find some success.
Don’t let Kyle Pitts have a huge day
While the success of Drake London at WR will have a lot to do with Jaycee Horn plays or not this weekend, however this Panthers defense has been getting routinely abused by tight ends in the passing game, whether it be the higher end tight ends of the game or 2nd and 3rd string backups. They’ll need to find a way to keep Pitts in check this weekend, something Horn may be able to help with. Either way, it could be a big day for Kyle Pitts.
What do you want to see out of the last game of the Panthers defense this season , Panthers fans?