Carolina Panthers Week 11 preview vs. Atlanta Falcons

CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 05: Luke Kuechly #59 of the Carolina Panthers stares down the Atlanta Falcons offense in the second quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 05: Luke Kuechly #59 of the Carolina Panthers stares down the Atlanta Falcons offense in the second quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 5, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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Carolina Panthers Week 11 preview vs. the Atlanta Falcons.

The Carolina Panthers suffered another set back in their push for a return to the playoffs last week but can regain some momentum with a victory on Sunday. Facing an NFC South divisional rival, the Atlanta Falcons enter fresh off their biggest win of the year.

Going up against current front-runner, New Orleans, the Falcons brought constant pressure tallying six sacks in route to a 26-9 win – only their second of the season. Proving that records can be thrown out the window when divisional opponents meet, Carolina should expect a tough test despite playing at home.

Quarterback Kyle Allen needs to avoid turning the ball over and granting Atlanta any type of momentum. In addition, the offensive line needs to be ready for multiple looks from a versatile Falcons defensive front to help keep Allen upright and able to execute the game plan.

2019 SEASON: CAROLINA PANTHERS (5-4) vs. ATLANTA FALCONS (2-7)

KICKOFF: Sunday, November 17 at 1:00 PM ET 

TV: FOX (Broadcast Coverage Map)

ONLINE: FuboTV Watch over 67 live sports and entertainment channels with a 7-day FREE trial!

LOCATION: Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte, NC)

WEATHER: 53 degrees, 61% humidity, 12mph NNE wind, 0% precipitation

LAST MEETING: 24-10, FALCONS – December 23, 2018 (WEEK 16)

WHAT TO WATCH:

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Since embarrassing the Falcons with a 38-point shutout in 2015 at Bank of America Stadium, the Panthers are just 1-6 against their divisional rivals. Regardless of the type of season either team is having, these two seem to always give each other their best when they meet.

Benefiting from the upset last week, the Panthers are just two games back of New Orleans with both games against the Saints upcoming. After Sunday only six total contests remain, so a victory is imperative for Carolina to remain in contention.

In order to do so they must protect Allen and establish the ground game with Christian McCaffrey. A recipe they have used repeatedly for success this season, the defense needs to also apply pressure on Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. With running back Devonta Freeman expected to be sidelined with an injury, generating pressure will assist the Panthers secondary in having to cover over a long period – especially against Julio Jones.

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Keeping Atlanta out of rhythm and potentially creating a few turnovers will also help to ensure Carolina wins their second divisional game of the season.