5 bold predictions for the Panthers vs. Buccaneers in Week 16
By Dean Jones
Jeremy Chinn gains 15+ tackles for the Carolina Panthers
Slotting Jeremy Chinn back to the position where he starred in college was almost a necessity for the Carolina Panthers considering their lack of quality on the backend. The safety still has trouble in coverage on occasions, but his athleticism and instincts have resulted in some top performances throughout the former second-round pick’s sophomore campaign.
Chinn was named as a third alternate for his first-ever Pro Bowl. So much will depend on which players either pull out or are competing for a Super Bowl before his status is officially confirmed.
This is all growth from Chinn’s standpoint. There is still some development to work on in the passing game, but the Southern Illinois product looks set to attain his second-straight 100-tackle year in Week 16 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Tom Brady likes to get the football out quickly and focus on the short to intermediate routes. This means there could be a few opportunities for Chinn to make plays providing he doesn’t get fooled by the wily veteran under center.
The Panthers need to give Brady something he’s not expecting. Chinn will obvioously come down to the line of scrimmage plenty and Carolina needs him around the action consistently in order to thrive.
Chinn’s season-high in tackles this season is 13 – which he’s managed on two occasions. But he might be able to top this number in his final home appearance of 2021.