4 final thoughts ahead of Carolina Panthers vs. NY Jets in Week 1
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers must stop Quinnen Williams
Much has been made about the offensive line and what complications underperforming might have on the Carolina Panthers in 2021. This is a patchwork group of veterans and outside of stud right tackle Taylor Moton, one couldn’t say with any real confidence any others will produce the level of consistency necessary.
They’ll get a stern test of their credentials in Week 1 against a stour New York Jets defensive front led by Quinnen Williams. The Alabama product has all the makings of a true breakout star this season and the introduction of Robert Saleh as head coach could take the player’s game to even greater heights moving forward.
This was recognized by Matt Rhule, who lauded Williams after practice on Friday and stated thwarting his production is the key to Carolina’s chances in Week 1.
"“Going back and watching him on tape—just explosive, dynamic, tremendous speed, sideline-to-sideline, plays with great length, has a vast array of pass-rush moves. Any time you go against a great player, you recognize the fact that he is a great player. So we have to work as a team, together. The entire five offensive linemen, all of us working together to make sure that we execute what we’re trying to get done.”"
Coming up with a game plan is one thing.
Stopping Williams is another matter entirely.
Things were made more difficult with John Miller going on the reserve/COVID-19 list. Dennis Daley switches over to the right guard position, something he isn’t too familiar with judging by his comments earlier this week.
If the Panthers cannot prevent Williams from generating pressure and causing disruption, it’s going to be a long afternoon for Sam Darnold.