Panthers vs Patriots: Three key matchups to watch

Panthers wide receivers vs. Patriots cornerbacks

It was no secret last year: The Patriots cornerbacks were not very good. The team ranked No. 30 in passing defense in 2017. Giving up 251.2 passing yards per game and 24 touchdowns, the corners left a lot to be desired.

To their credit, the Patriots made an effort in the offseason to  address the secondary problems. Starting with bringing in Jason McCourty from the Tennessee Titans, they also drafted cornerback Duke Dawson out of Florida and Keion Crossen out of Western Carolina. Combining that with veterans like Stephen Gilmore and Eric Rowe, the Patriots now possess a solid mix of veterans and rookies at the position.

Nevertheless, the secondary looked suspect last Thursday as the Philadelphia Eagles were able to complete a bunch of deep passes over the heads of the defense.  The Carolina Panthers could take advantage of that, particularly if Torrey Smith gets the opportunity to take on Eric Rowe. Smith burned Rowe on a spectacular catch and used his athleticism to gain the upper hand. If given the opportunity, expect Smith to get his fair share of targets.

Devin Funchess against Stephon Gilmore would be interesting to watch as well. Gilmore is a very physical corner. Funchess as we all know, is a tremendously athletic wideout. Seeing those two skillsets collide on Friday will be fascinating. One thing Funchess should do is try to bait Gilmore into committing penalties. He can do that by using his speed and forcing Gilmore to try and catch up. That way, there is  a chance for a jersey grab at the very least.

The Carolina Panthers will have their opportunities in the passing game on Friday. They will certainly have to make the most of them.