4 key Panthers matchups to watch at the Saints in Week 7
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers LBs vs. Alvin Kamara
Another pivotal matchup for the Carolina Panthers is their linebacking corps against the formidable adversary of Alvin Kamara. The Saints running back has been at the top of his game since signing a big-money extension shortly before competitive action began and he has now elevated himself into the discussion for best dual-threat backfield presence in the NFL.
Kamara can hurt an opposing defense in so many ways, it doesn’t seem fair at times. The former Tennessee sensation already has 676 all-purpose yards, seven touchdowns, and an 81.3 grade from Pro Football Focus to his name. And it is hard to gauge just where the New Orleans Saints offense would be without him at this juncture.
The back will see this as a primary opportunity to have another big day against a linebacking group that has struggled significantly without the presence of perennial All-Pro Luke Kuechly.
There is plenty to like about stud rookie Jeremy Chinn, who has been nothing short of phenomenal through the first six games of his professional career. The sky is the limit for the second-round pick who is fast becoming the defensive inspiration in Carolina, but more will be needed against Kamara.
If only the Panthers could say the same about Tahir Whitehead and Shaq Thompson. The veteran pair have been a big letdown, to put it mildly, and things will need a drastic turnaround against Kamara or it is going to be a long afternoon.