Here's everything you need to know about NFL pre-season records. Last year, the Detroit Lions were a perfect (4-0) in their pre-season games and then went on to become the first team to ever go (0-16) in the regular season. So, with the Panthers (0-2) halfway through their pre-season schedule, some of the critics are already chirping. Don't get me wrong, nobody here is saying the Panthers have it all figured out and are ready to run the table in 2009, but pre-season is supposed to still be a time to work through personnel combinations, a new defensive system and coaching staff, and in general get used to playing in game situations.
The biggest lingering question is whether or not the Panthers will consistently be able to stop the run. The New York Giants and Miami Dolphins met with little resistance in that department, in particular when the starters were playing. At one point late in the Miami game, the Dolphins were averaging (6.6) yards per carry before settling in at 5 yards a run by the end of the game.
No question, losing starting defensive tackle and run stop specialist Ma'ake Kemoeatu to a season-long achilles tendon tear was a significant blow. Also apparent so far is that Damione Lewis is the only defensive tackle currently on the roster capable of starting at this level. In time, Nick Hayden, Corvey Irvin or Marlon Favorite may emerge, but for now they are more rotation guys to provide depth. Picking a player off waivers or trading a late draft pick ala the Chris Harris deal two years ago will likely be the next step to plug the position.
Young veterans and rookies who have emerged....second-year linebacker Dan Connor missed most of his rookie season with an injury, but now looks like Dan Morgan did when he was healthy, tackling everybody in sight. Another linebacker James Anderson has stood out, including eight tackles in just the first half of the Miami game. Anderson also had a sack and blocked a punt versus the Giants. Rookie Captain Munnerlyn from South Carolina had a 58-yard punt return against the Dolphins and will compete for playing time in the secondary.
Offensively, Butler High School graduate Kenny Moore is really making a case for the final wide receiver position. Moore played at Wake Forest and his off-season work with another Demon Deacon grad Ricky Proehl has really paid off. Rookie running back Mike Goodson from Texas A&M will be the third back and looks like he can handle kick returns. All three tight ends likely to make the roster have had bright spots with Donte Rosario catching passes, Jeff King as the best blocker, and Gary Barnidge a combination of the two.
Panther Talk is underway, but the first show with an audience will be Monday September 14th at Bank of America Stadium following the regular season opener. Coach John Fox and a Panthers player will join Mick Mixon and me each week.
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Posted by: the vert | October 30, 2009 at 08:38 AM