Carolina Panthers: Playoffs return justifiable in 2018

Panthers: Playoffs return justifiable in 2018

CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 24: Cam Newton #1 talks to his head coach Ron Rivera of the Carolina Panthers before their game against the New Orleans Saints at Bank of America Stadium on September 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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PITTSBURGH, PA – AUGUST 30: Joshua Dobbs #5 of the Pittsburgh Steelers spins out of a sack against Bryan Cox #91 and Zach Moore #77 of the Carolina Panthers during a preseason game on August 30, 2018 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

Deep Pass Rush

The Panthers have always benefited from a good pass rush and impressive front-seven on their defense but 2018 may be their best version yet. Incorporating a rotation of pass rushers to keep consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks throughout an entire game, Carolina has their deepest pool of difference makers along the defensive line to date.

Behind starters Mario Addison, Julius Peppers, Dontari Poe and Kawann Short is an impressive group in their own right – Marquis Haynes, Wes Horton, Vernon Butler and Kyle Love. Add an improving Bryan Cox Jr. and Efe Obada into the mix and you have some serious talent available to rush the passer.

This group should not only enjoy their fair share of sacks but the constant pressure will help both the linebacker play and that of a secondary with questions of their own.

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