4 key Panthers matchups to watch at the Chiefs in Week 9
By Dean Jones
Brian Burns vs. Patrick Mahomes
In truth, the best way to keep Patrick Mahomes from making a difference is by keeping him off the field. This will be a job for the offense, but it is essential that the Carolina Panthers generate some consistent pressure on the quarterback at Arrowhead Stadium.
Easier said than done, but not impossible.
Carolina’s struggles getting after the quarterback have been there for all to see in 2020. They are among the NFL’s worst in sacks gained and they are mostly relying on one man to make any sort of a difference on the defensive line from a pass-rushing perspective.
Brian Burns has been sensational for the Panthers through the first half of the season. He has developed significantly and is now the well-rounded edge player Carolina envisaged when they used their first-round pick on him in 2019.
The former Florida State star needs to be at his best to get Mahomes thinking twice, and even that might not be enough. Burns possesses exceptional explosiveness off the line of scrimmage and is a matchup nightmare for anyone at this juncture. But the Chiefs are sure to be confident that their signal-caller can put up lofty numbers no matter the standard of opposition.
Yes, he is simply that good.
Mahomes is an MVP and Super Bowl winner despite being in his third official year as a starter. He is on course for 4,630 passing yards, 42 touchdowns, and just two interceptions if the player continues at his current pace, which would undoubtedly come with even more individual accolades.