Carolina Panthers: Three takeaways from big win over Titans

Shaq Thompson played well

Shaq Thompson was all over the field today. At the beginning of the season, I thought that Carolina needed someone to step up to replace the personnel classes on defense. Thompson has been one of those guys, and he showed it Sunday afternoon.

He had 11 total tackles, a sack, and a hit on Ryan Tannehill. He impacted the play of Tennessee in many ways. Although  his statistics may not be as noticeable as those of the offense, he made a tremendous impact on the game. It was great to see him all over the field, and I hope he continues to play like this down the stretch. The Carolina Panthers have been functioning well as a defensive unit for most of the season.

Thompson should figure to be a big part of the defense down the road. He showed he has the ability to help solidify the defensive unit, and the Panthers will need him as the grind of the season continues on.  Especially against a tough Green Bay Packers team, Thompson will definitely be needed to help bring pressure on Aaron Rodgers. Again, that is easier said than done.