3 severe threats the Panthers must worry about vs. 49ers in Week 5
By Preston Seyl
Carolina Panthers must contain Deebo Samuel
Deebo Samuel is one of the most unique players in the NFL. He is the ultimate chess piece for offensive guru Kyle Shanahan to play with.
You’ll see Samuel all over the field creating mismatches for the defense. The former South Carolina standout can easily take over this game with Jeremy Chinn on the injured/reserve list
Chinn would’ve been Phil Snow’s equalizer in trying to contain Samuel. But he won’t suit up for several weeks and the Carolina Panthers face further problems with Xavier Woods set to be a game-time decision thanks to a hamstring complication.
Samuel is a hybrid difference-maker that will attack a defense in every way imaginable. Snow and his staff need to conjure up one of their best plans in stopping the wideout from going wild on his return home, so to speak.
Losing someone with Chinn’s credentials is a huge blow as he is the only defender that could match up well with Samuel. Look for Snow to turn to Jaycee Horn, who has the coverage abilities and physicality to potentially prevent the receiver from turning this game on its head.
The task awaiting Carolina is a steep one. Samuel looks at the top of his game through four weeks and if he builds on this positive momentum, it could be another long afternoon.