Carolina Panthers LBs vs. Taysom Hill
Mobile quarterback.
This is what Taysom Hill is labeled as in today’s NFL and it is a fairly apt description, but the first-time starter is more like a wildcat than a true signal-caller. A player that is run first but also has a bit of arm talent as well.
With that said, the Carolina Panthers are going to have to accomplish something that they have been unable to do all season. Contain a quarterback that can run.
The reasons for this are many. But can be boiled down to a distinct lack of discipline, not filling gaps correctly, or overpursuing creating even larger openings.
This is a longstanding weakness that will more than likely not be magically fixed this week and that means the responsibility to spy Hill will fall on the shoulders of an under-strength linebacker group that could be without Shaq Thompon and Haason Reddick due to COVID-19.
Thompson has been a bright spot in the Panthers’ defense all season and has been incredibly consistent as well, both against the run and the pass. Maybe the only player that has been consistent against the run this year.
Getting him back will be important considering Hill is and always has been a run-first player.
Shedding blocks, taking correct angles, and repositioning the line are all a part of containing Hill. In the end, it will fall on the linebacker’s shoulders to step up and bring down the physically imposing quarterback.
Failing this will let the Saints open up their playbook and let Hill get into a rhythm that will allow him to throw the ball with a little more confidence and freedom. All it takes is one missed tackle and this game will look completely different.
Keeping Hill contained is priority No. 1 for the Panthers in Week 17 and it should be treated as such.