5 Patriots players the Carolina Panthers must keep quiet in Week 9
By Jason Huber
Adrian Phillips – S
While Matt Judon had a great game against the Los Angeles Chargers, safety Adrian Phillips was the one who came away with AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors thanks to a two-interception game that included a pick-six.
Phillips has been in the league for a while but is putting together his best year with three interceptions and 37 tackles. He has been one of the most reliable secondary players on the New England Patriots’ roster and will be a challenge for the Carolina Panthers this week.
The Panthers’ receivers have struggled lately.
Phillips won’t make their lives any easier in Week 9.
No matter who is at quarterback for Carolina, Phillips is hot and they should try to avoid his direction if possible. If he can have such a good game against one of the league’s best quarterbacks in Justin Herbert, Sam Darnold or Walker need to watch out.
It does appear highly unlikely that Darnold will see the field on Sunday after taking a brutal hit in the fourth quarter that put the signal-caller into the concussion protocol. But considering the lack of success he’s had against the Patriots and Bill Belichick over the years, it might be a blessing in disguise.