10 key takeaways from Panthers loss at the Packers in Week 15
By Dean Jones
The Panthers lost the line of scrimmage battle in the first half
It was vital for the Carolina Panthers to compete well at the line of scrimmage. But they were outmatched for the majority of the contest which played a leading role in them falling to their tenth defeat of the 2020 season.
This was especially evident whenever the Packers ran the football. Aaron Jones seemed to have all day to find the right lanes – of which there were many – and Carolina paid the price accordingly.
There were some nice moments, particularly from No. 7 overall selection Derrick Brown and stud defensive end, Brian Burns. But they cannot do it alone.
Derrick Brown continues to shine
It might have taken Derrick Brown some time to adjust to life in the NFL. But the level of production he’s demonstrated over the last few weeks has been hugely encouraging.
The defensive tackle was a stout force once again that came up with some eye-catching plays to further enhance his overall influence on proceedings. Brown is looking more like a shrewd pick with every passing week and there is just no telling how much better the former Auburn standout can become with a less disrupted offseason under his belt in 2021.
Robby Anderson’s quiet night
It was a difficult game for Robby Anderson. The Packers identified him as Carolina’s main threat and put their stud cornerback Jaire Alexander on him early and often, which meant opportunities were limited throughout.
Anderson didn’t have a target until late in the first half and although the Panthers tried to get him more involved after the break, it brought little in the way of production from the free-agent signing. Losing the individual battle with a player of Alexander’s qualities is nothing to be ashamed of and he should bounce back before the end of the season.