4 key matchups for the Panthers vs. Cardinals in Week 4

Brian Burns vs. Kyler Murray

One of the key factors in the Carolina Panthers finally ending their ten-game losing streak was the performance of their defense. They managed to generate pressure in the Chargers’ backfield for the first time this season and this is the benchmark that the front seven can now aspire to.

Brian Burns was nothing short of sensational in Week 3. The former first-round pick has been performing to a high level this season and he looks to be the complete package thanks to the hard work he put in on becoming a well-rounded defensive end this offseason.

Burns will need to be wary of the threat posed by quarterback Kyler Murray if the Panthers want to stand any chance of making it back-to-back wins. The Cardinals struck gold when they were able to select the signal-caller at No. 1 overall in 2019 and he already looks to be a star in the making.

Murray can do it all. He can pick you apart in the pocket in the passing game and also has a rare elusiveness that makes him a force to be reckoned with once he maneuvers out of the pocket. Burns needs to limit his production by getting as much pressure as he possibly can, and even that might not be enough to thwart what the quarterback brings to the table.

This is going to be one of the most crucial on-field battles to keep an eye on during the game. If Burns can get after Murray consistently, then it might see Carolina walk away with another triumph.