Carolina Panthers defense needs slight adjustments
The run defense looked to be making strides up until the San Francisco 49ers game. But a few injuries to Frankie Luvu, Xavier Woods, and Jeremy Chinn proved too much to overcome against a strong attack led by an outstanding performance from Jeff Wilson Jr.
San Francisco rushed for 153 yards overall, which set the tone for a convincing triumph. Anytime the Carolina Panthers go up against a unique run scheme, the defense cannot keep up.
Defensive coordinator Phil Snow was also let go along with Matt Rhule, which was Steve Wilks’ call. He had a unique system that had its moments but was deeply flawed against new modern-day run schemes.
Carolina won’t enjoy sustained success on defense if they cannot stop those systems that are becoming a familiar trend across the league. Another task Wilks must find answers to in a relatively short space of time.
Expect to see a more pro-style defensive system moving forward where the Panthers are concerned. This area of the football is where Wilks excels, but whether the players can pick up these adjustments in-season is a major concern.
Nobody will be working harder than Wilks to turn the Panthers around. But the challenge awaiting him cannot be understated.