Carolina Panthers physical approach set for acid test at the Ravens

A newfound physical approach implemented by the Carolina Panthers under Steve Wilks is set for an acid test at the Baltimore Ravens in Week 11.

One word has been synonymous with the Carolina Panthers since interim head coach Steve Wilks replaced Matt Rhule, who was fired after their Week 5 loss against the San Francisco 49ers.

Physicality.

Wilks has completely shifted the mindset within the locker room in a relatively short space of time. He’s keen for the Panthers to return to their roots, playing smash-mouth football and dominating the trenches on both sides, which is bringing around some positive performances and results in the immediate aftermath of Rhule’s departure.

Thursday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons was another fine example of this. Carolina had their way at the line of scrimmage, which allowed running back D’Onta Foreman to continue his outstanding recent form and cause Marcus Mariota untold complications when it was his turn under center.

There is growing confidence in Wilks’ abilities. Something that could see the former Arizona Cardinals head coach get another crack at a top job long-term when it’s all said and done.

Carolina Panthers face another big test under Steve Wilks in Week 11

However, the Panthers’ new approach to physical football is going to get an acid test in Week 11 at the Baltimore Ravens. A team not known for backing down from such challenges throughout recent history.

Winning this particular battle will be easier said than done for the Panthers. Baltimore is a tough obstacle with the foundations set for a deep postseason run, but Wilks is keen for the same ethos to be maintained despite the significant hurdles his team must overcome this weekend.

"“Everything we do starts up front. We’ve got to do a great job establishing the run game, getting (D’Onta) Foreman, Chuba Hubbard, and all those guys running. Then when we do pass the football, (do a) great job of giving him (Baker Mayfield) a clean pocket, so he can go through his progressions and get the ball down the field.”"

Carolina’s offensive line has made remarkable strides this season. They’ve stayed relatively healthy aside from Pat Elflein’s injury, but Bradley Bozeman’s introduction into a starting berth seems to have improved consistency when needed most.

Things are less certain on the defensive line. The Panthers will be relying heavily on Derrick Brown and Brian Burns extending their Pro Bowl-caliber production to make things uncomfortable for Baltimore’s star quarterback Lamar Jackson, but the onus will also be on others to raise their performance levels with Matt Ioannidis already ruled out.

That might be the difference, one suspects. But the Panthers won’t be found wanting for effort under Wilks, who is setting greater standards and improving preparation to a level not seen during Rhule’s failed stint with the organization.

Whether this will be enough to overcome the odds in Baltimore is another matter. However, after so much heartache and disenchantment from the fanbase, seeing some fight in the face of adversity might be enough for Wilks to keep his positive momentum going.

This will be a great way for the Panthers to see where the team is currently at and what more needs to be done. If they could pull off an upset using physicality as the primary stepping stone, then Wilks would instantly become the frontrunner to replace Rhule beyond the current campaign.