7 key takeaways from Panthers’ win at Washington in Week 16

Incredible defense in the first half

The Carolina Panthers picked up where they left off at the Packers in the second half from a defensive standpoint. Phil Snow’s men were absolutely ruthless once again, putting them in a commanding position and pile more pressure on Washington’s beleaguered signal-caller Dwayne Haskins, who was abysmal and eventually benched.

Tre Boston and Tahir Whitehead came up big with interceptions in the first half. This was matched by some impressive defensive line play and good coverage on the backend, which was another step in the right direction for a unit that seems to be improving with every passing game.

Considering that stud defensive end Brian Burns didn’t play much in the first half despite being active, it was enormously encouraging and with a couple more pieces this offseason, Carolina’s defense could be one to watch in 2021.

Curtis Samuel earned more money

The time is fast approaching for Curtis Samuel to get paid. And it is obvious that the wide receiver knows this too if his performance was any indication.

Samuel was absolutely sensational at FedEx Field, coming up with some eye-catching plays both running the football and in the passing game, which included a sensational juke for a big gain in the first half.

There is nothing the former second-round pick cannot do with the ball in his hands. He is a dynamic weapon that the Panthers need to keep around in no uncertain terms and the sooner a new general manager is secured and negotiations can begin, the better.