5 Falcons players the Carolina Panthers must keep quiet in Week 8
By Jason Huber
Cordarelle Patterson – RB/WR/KR
Well, it took eight years but Cordarelle Patterson is finally being used properly on offense and it’s paying dividends for the Atlanta Falcons.
Patterson has been the most surprising story of the NFL season so far. He’s been a threat in the run and receiving game for Atlanta, compiling four rushing touchdowns and two receiving scores through six games.
He’s averaging 11 yards per reception and 9.2 carries per game. This is an astonishing turnaround in Patterson’s fortunes, although he was a first-round talent after being taken by the Minnesota Vikings out of Tennessee.
While former Carolina Panthers running back Mike Davis is still the starting option for the Falcons Falcons, Patterson has been the dynamic weapon of the offense.
Carolina will have its hands full with the positionless nature that Patterson provides. It would benefit them greatly in this game if they can force him out of Atlanta’s plan.
The defense has been the least of Carolina’s problems recently. Although they will continue to struggle if prevented from getting the necessary rest due to the offense’s failure to keep the chains moving.