5 big changes the Panthers should consider at the NY Giants in Week 7
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers should stop dropping Brian Burns in coverage
The production of Brian Burns has dipped over the last three games after a standout start to the season.
Everyone associated with the Carolina Panthers was expecting the former first-round pick to make the leap to an elite edge rusher in 2021 after showing more than enough to suggest this was possible during the previous campaign. Something that hasn’t quite happened as yet.
That’s not to say Burns cannot become this. But the Panthers need to get back to basics with the Florida State product and make the most out of his exceptional skill set.
Simply put, stop dropping Burns in coverage and keep him on the line of scrimmage.
It’s what he does best.
One problem that’s coming up again with Burns is an inability to finish off plays after getting to the spot quickly. Another glaring example of this was his non-sack on quarterback Kirk Cousins at a key moment in Week 6.
There’s nothing wrong with just taking down the signal-caller.
Burns doesn’t need to try and create a turnover every time he gets his hands on a quarterback. Once he figures this out, his numbers should increase exponentially.
Until then, the Panthers should stop trying to get cute with Burns and make sure he’s at least in a position to increase his influence on proceedings.