3 bold predictions for the Panthers in Week 8 vs. the Falcons

The Carolina Panthers’ defense won’t let Julio Jones beat them

The Carolina Panthers avoided Julio Jones in their first matchup against the Falcons and managed to take away their second option, Calvin Ridley, for the most part. This week, the All-Pro wide receiver is set to start and is back to terrorizing opposing secondaries with 234 yards and two touchdowns in his last two games.

Despite the production, Jones has still been brought up in trade rumors among NFL media and fans. The Falcons wideout was asked about the rumors in his post-game press conference this past Sunday.

"“No. I play football. I know who I am, I know what I got going on. I know what I mean to this team.”"

Jones’ status with the team after the trade deadline will be none of Carolina’s concern because they have to deal with him now. Drew Brees gashed the zone defense on Sunday so Panthers defensive coordinator Phil Snow will need to switch things up to keep Julio at bay,  and the secondary must step up and keep Ridley under control.

The two best things Carolina can do is to get lots of pressure on Matt Ryan and be great at tackling. Jones might have another 100-yard game, but if Matt Rhule’s squad can stop him from getting catches at critical points in the game, they’ll have a much better chance of winning.