The Carolina Panthers Defense: The Terror of the NFC South
By Nick Yon
What the addition of defensive monster Dontari Poe does for the Carolina Panthers, and what it means for the rest of the NFC South.
Despite the failed signing of Bashaud Breeland, the Carolina Panthers still managed to make their already formidable defense more intimidating by adding the 350+ pound Dontari Poe to an already top-ranking defensive line.
The Carolina Panthers run a 4-3 defense. With rotating defensive ends flying off the edges, Dontari Poe will pair up with Kawaan Short in order to collapse the pockets’ of opposing quarterbacks. Dontari Poe will be solidifying an already fearsome defensive line featuring Mario Addison and Julius Peppers. Right behind them are the linebacker trio of Luke Kuechly, Thomas Davis, and Shaq Thompson.
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The Panthers secondary currently consists of James Bradberry, Kevon Seymour, Colin Jones, and Mike Adams. Seymour and Jones will likely be replaced by free agency leftovers and the draft. That will be a serviceable secondary with the good young corner Bradberry on the rise.
A defense built like the Panthers could have devastating effects on the offenses of the offenses of the NFC South.
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons explosive offense relies on Julio Jones distracting defenses from the other weapons surrounding Matt Ryan. The Panthers have double-covered him in games previously and would be wise to do so at all times until James Bradberry develops to the point where he can travel with Jones.
The danger posed by Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman will be nullified by the front seven similar to the way that Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram were shut down in the playoffs.
New Orleans Saints
The Panthers front seven successfully shut down the Saints running attack in playoffs. The problem was the arm of Drew Brees. His pin-point accuracy destroyed the Panthers’ secondary. However, Dontari Poe and Kawaan Short will be able to collapse the pocket. This will lead to errant throws by Brees.
The biggest question is if the defensive line can pressure Brees consistently. With the addition of Poe, Defensive Coordinator Eric Washington will have no excuse if he is unable to pressure Brees.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are entering another season of overhauling the roster. Unfortunately, the Bucs are in one of the most competitive divisions in the National Football League and are already behind. Sorry Bucs fans, you’re about to be the punching bag of the NFC South.
Conclusion
Defensive Coordinator Eric Washington is a former defensive line coach. With him at the helm, the Panthers’ pass rush should be one of the best in the NFL. Coupled with an elite linebacker core and a rising secondary, this Carolina defense is at a championship level.