4 Panthers players that can spearhead shock win at Ravens in Week 11
By Noah Bryce
Derrick Brown – Carolina Panthers DT
Speaking of that first line of defense.
Derrick Brown is finally the star to fill the void left by Kawaan Short that the fanbase has been waiting for and it’s amazing to see. The relentless pursuit, block shedding, double team splitting defensive tackle that can change the course of any contest.
Just look at the plays where the massive Brown tracked down running backs across the formation to drop them for a loss against the Atlanta Falcons for proof of how far the former No. 7 overall selection has come.
That type of penetration and motor will be essential for the Carolina Panthers to disrupt the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday as the majority of their game plan hinges on the run and it being effective. Whether this is with the various running backs on their roster or their immensely mobile signal-caller Lamar Jackson.
If Brown can live in the backfield once again, it will force the Ravens to rely more on Jackson’s arm and less on his legs. Even with the massive improvements to that part of the former Louisville star’s game, it’s the best way Carolina can cause an upset.
Stopping the run is the first and largest priority for the Panthers in Week 11. That all begins with Brown in the trenches.
Even if the Auburn product doesn’t get a sack or tackles for loss, the disruption Brown can wreak is more than enough to throw the Ravens off their game.