7 tough matchups awaiting Russell Okung in 2020
By Dean Jones
Danielle Hunter (Week 12 on Carolina Panthers schedule)
Of all the tough matchups awaiting Russell Okung in 2020. His clash against Danielle Hunter of the Minnesota Vikings might be the most daunting of all.
The former LSU Tiger has quickly become a devastating pass-rusher and someone that is only just getting started. Hunter is a nightmare to come up against for virtually any left tackle. And this was further reflected with another exceptional campaign in 2019.
Hunter was at his prolific best on his way to 15 sacks, three forced fumbles, and 38 solo tackles. This earned the Pro Bowler a superb and deserved 89.4 grade from Pro Football Focus.
The defensive end will not have the benefit of Everson Griffen on the other side of the Minnesota Vikings’ front next season. But there is little to suggest Hunter is not going to thrive with additional responsibility on his shoulders.
The player has a rare blend of speed, power, and length that can leave lineman such as Okung scratching their heads as to exactly how they can stop him. The Panthers might be on the wrong side of a losing record by this point of the campaign. So it remains to be seen just how motivated the roster will be.
Okung will also start to feel the effects of a long stretch before their week 13 bye. So this encounter against someone like Hunter comes at the worst possible time of the season.