3 key matchups for Week 1 against the Cowboys

The  defense on third down against the Cowboy offense

In 2017, the Dallas Cowboys were fifth in the league in third down conversion percentage. Boasting a conversion rate of 42.9, Dallas excelled on third down.

Carolina ranked No. 13 in the league in allowing third down conversions. They boasted an opponent conversion percentage of 37.9 %. The key here for the defense would be to not allow a bunch of plays per drive. For instance, a three-yard run here and a three yard screen pass there makes it third and four. As long as the Carolina Panther defense can stay fresh and not wear down, they should be fine. It is easier said than done.  A bit of responsibility falls on the offense here too, If they can put together long, sustained drives that can keep the defense off the field, that would be ideal.

Third-down conversions are often backbreakers. Getting pressure on the quarterback and offensive line early and often will be key for the Panther defense. That way, a potential sack or two could put the offense in a difficult situation and make life easier for the defense. Third down-and-long situations that are easy for the defense are going to be critical against an offense that can put up numbers in a hurry.