4 key Panthers matchups to watch at Washington in Week 16
By Dean Jones
Taylor Moton vs. Chase Young
Taylor Moton has earned himself some serious money this season. The Carolina Panthers would be wise to give their premier edge protector a lucrative extension this offseason after another standout campaign that has seen the former second-round pick emerge as one of the NFL’s best right tackles.
Moton is sure to have his hands full in Week 16 at Washington coming up against Chase Young, who was the No. 2 overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft and has shown flashes of brilliance during his rookie campaign.
Young was somehow selected to the Pro Bowl over Carolina’s stud defensive end Brian Burns, which might be a big feather in his cap. But it is further proof of the flawed popularity contest it’s become rather than going simply on production alone.
Keeping a clean pocket for Teddy Bridgewater is going to be crucial. Washington boasts a formidable defense from top to bottom that has been the springboard behind their surprise 6-8 record after a dismal start.
Moton will be key to this. He has given up just three sacks and two penalties from 902 snaps this season on his way to an outstanding 81.5 grade from Pro Football Focus and he will need to be at the top of his game to counteract Young’s extreme threat.