5 toughest matchups for Panthers QB Sam Darnold in 2021
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold vs. Minnesota Vikings
- Week 6 (October 17)
The Carolina Panthers blew a commanding lead at the Minnesota Vikings during the 2020 season that was ultimately another nail in Teddy Bridgewater’s coffin. Sam Darnold will be hoping for better fortune in Week 6, but Mike Zimmer’s defense looks set to be a real force once again after a busy period of free-agent signings and NFL Draft picks.
Minnesota picked up a huge signing on their defensive front in the form of interior lineman Dalvin Tomlinson. Michael Pierce will be returning to partner the former New York Giant after opting out in 2020, with the presence of stud defensive end Danielle Hunter also coming back something the Panthers must not ignore.
Patrick Peterson and Mackensie Alexander were brought in to sure up their cornerback options, with Xavier Woods set to partner Harrison Smith at safety as the player looks to bounce back after a disappointing campaign with the Dallas Cowboys last season.
The Vikings have an All-Pro linebacker in Eric Kendricks, Anthony Barr is still around after the team decided not to cut him ahead of time, and rookies such as Patrick Jones, Janarius Robinson, and Chazz Surratt should play a part right from the outset.
Zimmer has always prided himself on having top defenses to call upon. Last season was disappointing, but Darnold should not get complacent in the face of what is sure to be a much-improved group.