Power ranking the top 10 Panthers’ performers in Week 4 win
By Dean Jones
. CURTIS SAMUEL. 9. player. 87. .
No. 9: Curtis Samuel – Carolina Panthers WR
When Curtis Samuel dropped a pass early in the game, it might have been enough for the player’s head to drop somewhat. Instead, the wide receiver regrouped and played a leading role in another notable win for the Carolina Panthers.
He eventually finished the game with three receptions for 51 receiving yards, but this doesn’t tell the full story regarding his overall influence. Samuel made some hugely important catches in critical situations and this should give the former Ohio State standout plenty of confidence as he looks to become more involved in the offense as the season goes on.
87. . . . DERRICK BROWN. 8. player
No. 8: Derrick Brown – Carolina Panthers DT
This was another strong outing for Derrick Brown, who is rapidly evolving into the prospect that the Carolina Panthers hoped he would be when they took him at No. 7 overall. The defensive tackle was a relentless force on the line of scrimmage and generated enough attention to allow others around him to make plays consistently.
It might not show up on the stat sheet, but there is just no telling how much this is going to benefit the Panthers. Brown did come up with another tackle for loss to add to his collection and the sky is the limit for the former Auburn sensation if what we have seen so far is any indication.
. . . JEREMY CHINN. 7. player. 87
No. 7: Jeremy Chinn – Carolina Panthers OLB
This was another tremendous outing for Jeremy Chinn, who is fast becoming a real star. The Carolina Panthers have undoubtedly struck gold with the former Southern Illinois standout and for a rookie to set the tone on defense is especially rare.
There was a penalty called on Chinn for a dangerous hit, but one cannot criticize him too much for that. His closing speed to the point of attack is nothing short of phenomenal and it was no surprise to see Chinn leading the Panthers in tackles once again.
Chinn is a genuine Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate if he continues in this manner for the entirety of the campaign. And there is nothing to suggest he is not more than capable.