4 keys to victory for the Panthers vs. the Falcons in Week 8
By Dean Jones
Stop Julio Jones
One player that the Carolina Panthers didn’t have to contend with during their first game against the Atlanta Falcons was Julio Jones. The stud wide receiver has been dealing with a hamstring issue all season, but he has managed to stay in the lineup for consecutive contests to ease the player’s frustrations.
Jones needs no introduction. He is still one of the NFL’s best playmakers in the passing game and possesses a unique combination of size, speed, and agility that makes him almost impossible to cover.
There isn’t a lot even the most talented cornerback unit could do to limit Jones completely. But if the Panthers can somehow limit his overall influence on proceedings, it will give them a good chance of returning to winning ways.
Easier said than done, but not impossible.
The former Alabama standout has accumulated 828 receptions, 12,572 receiving yards, and 59 touchdowns throughout his career. There is plenty more still to come from the wideout if his recent performances are any indication and thwarting him isn’t going to be a one-man task for a Panthers secondary who were carved open by Drew Brees at the Saints.
Getting Rasul Douglas off the reserve/COVID-19 list is going to be critical. He is the best cover corner on the roster and has the sort of length that could make a difference.