4 crucial matchups the Panthers must win vs. Buccaneers in Week 16
By Noah Bryce
Shaq Thompson vs. Rob Gronkowski
Shaq Thompson has had a career year for the Carolina Panthers after fans and sportscasters alike called out the outside linebacker for his subpar performance without generational talent Luke Kuechly running alongside him.
That criticism was perfectly warranted and might just have been the motivation that Thompson needed to turn into a true leader on the Panthers’ defense.
The epitome of a hybrid player, the Washington product is just as effective against the run as he is the pass – shutting down tight ends and slot receivers at an impressive clip. This is something Thompson will have to tap into against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and one of the most physically imposing tight ends in league history with Rob Gronkowski.
Gronk may not be the same player that took over games during his New England Patriots days. However, he is still a beast of a man that has the complete trust of Tom Brady.
When the game is on the line Brady looks for his big-bodied tight end across the middle and a large part of the Buccaneers’ offensive scheme is getting Gronkowski into mismatches with opposing linebackers.
This would already be something to plan against, but with the devastating series of injuries the team faced against the New Orleans Saints, Gronkowski is the only true target left for Brady to call upon – meaning Thompson’s coverage skills will be tested that much more.
Opportunities to show the world just how much you’ve improved don’t come along every day. If Thompson can shut down Gronkowski, it just may cement his place for years to come.