Rapid Recap: 31 – 17 Atlanta over Carolina
Cam Newton threw 3 picks as the Falcons dominated the second half of the NFC South Match-Up.
The Panthers looked strong coming out of the gate, but mistakes by Newton and the defense allowed Atlanta to walk away with the W. There were some bright spots, but they were overshadowed by the Panthers inability to close out the game. Newton looked solid until the second half, when Atlanta started putting him on the ground. Check back after the break for more on the game.
What It Means
Carolina is continually having the same problems: they can’t stop the run. So that means Carolina needs to change up something on defense if they want to pick up a few more wins. Next week they play Washington that has 3 solid RB’s. If they can’t get it together on defense, they will not win another game. I hate being so pessimistic but that is the number one problem in Charlotte.
What I Liked
Did anyone catch the name of the player wearing the No. 28 jersey, because that didn’t look like The Daily Show. He averaged about 7 yards a carry then disappeared from the game almost completely. I was confused because he was being so productive, and then Carolina stopped running the ball with him. Even when they were up he only saw the ball on 3rd down. But, the Panthers are finding momentum while running the ball, and D-Will had some runs that reminded me of the old No. 34
He Can’t be Human
Charles Johnson has to be an alien or some sort of biologically enhance being with super powers. In a day in which Carolina’s D-Line looked rough, he again recorded a sack. He has 5 sacks for the season, and could beat his numbers from last year.
We May have Been Wrong
I think they may have dressed some other player in the No. 17, because that didn’t look like Naanee. He had two HUGE receptions, and finally proved himself a #2 receiver. If he can keep this up, it will allow Cam more reliable targets.
Up Next
Next the Panthers take on the Redskins. Today Grossman was benched after throwing 4 picks, and hopefully he stays in that form. If the Panthers can control Grossman and pick him off multiple times, they have a chance to dominate the Skins.