Can the Panthers keep their undefeated home record?
The Carolina Panthers fell short against the Detroit Lions on Sunday. In a topic that’s sure to be talked about for the remainder of the week (if not longer), Ron Rivera made a dicey decision. After Cam Newton connected to D.J. Moore for an eight yard touchdown pass to cut the Lions’ lead 20-19 with a 1:07 left, Rivera called for a two-point conversion versus the extra point. Earlier in the game, kicker Graham Gano missed a short field goal and an extra point. On the two-point play, Newton overthrew a wide open Jarius Wright. Lions’ defense came up strong throughout the game while Panthers were unable to take home the win.
Despite a shaky start, the Seattle Seahawks pulled away with a 27-24 comeback win over the Green Bay Packers to keep them in the NFC playoff race. Seahawks’ defense came through in the second half, limiting the Packers to just one scoring drive. Seattle has struggled against the run throughout the season, but managed to hold the Packers to an astonishing 48 rushing yards. They also managed to sack Aaron Rodgers a whopping five times.
In a matchup that’s crucial for both teams to keep their playoff chances alive, here are the three keys for the Panthers offense to find success against the Seahawks defense:
Play inch by inch: Prior to the Packers, Seattle’s defense struggled against the run. Running backs Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley pounded their defense. Seahawks have struggled with leaky yardage and missed tackles. Panthers need simple plays that turn into a game of inches. With questions looming around Newton’s left ankle after he was pulled from behind versus Detroit, it’s imperative for Carolina to step up in the run the game. Christian McCaffrey is an obvious weapon, but Moore needs to see just as many touches.
Key in on pass rush: Quinton Jefferson was disruptive against the Packers. He created pressure in the pocket, opening up opportunities for the Seahawks’ edge rushers. Jefferson took away potential lanes for Rodgers to scramble into and made openings for Seattle’s leading pass rusher, Frank Clark, to sack him twice (Clark has ten sacks for the season). Offensive tackle Chris Clark will need help due to him consistently surrendering pressure. The edges have been an issue for keeping Newton in the pocket.
Keep the foot on the gas: Seahawks continue to improve as they go. Chargers scored 19 points in the first half against Seattle, the Rams scored 17 and the Packers scored 21. Seahawks have proven they can turn things around in the second half, holding each the Chargers and Packers to a single second-half field goal. In the last five games, Seattle has allowed 64 points in the first half versus 38 in the second.
The Panthers are 5-0 at home. In order to keep their home record undefeated, they’ll need to keep the momentum and continue to protect Cam.
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