5 things to monitor closely during Panthers vs. the Patriots in Week 9
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers defense against Mac Jones
Matt Rhule gave high praise to Mac Jones this week. The quarterback has begun his NFL career in eye-catching fashion and the head coach claimed that he knew that the former Alabama star would be a top player at the next level after spending time with him at the 2021 Senior Bowl.
That wasn’t enough for the Carolina Panthers to select Jones. Instead, Rhule decided to give up three draft selections to acquire Sam Darnold from the New York Jets. A decision that the jury is still out on.
As for Jones, this Sunday represents one of the biggest challenges of his young career. Phil Snow has the Panthers’ defense playing at an extremely high level and they’ll fancy their chances against a signal-caller that could get flustered when the pressure is on.
Jones is a great scheme fit with the New England Patriots. His football IQ allows him to progress through reads and get rid of the football quickly, so Carolina won’t have much time to generate pressure if the same happens again at Bank of America Stadium.
Snow is one of the shrewdest defensive minds you’ll find. He’ll have formed a clear game plan to limit Jones, which will also include thwarting the influence of running back Damien Harris.
This will be a fascinating battle to keep an eye on. Obviously, who comes out on top will be in the driver’s seat for victory.