Three Keys to a Panthers Week Two Victory Over Arizona
The Panthers had a rough week against the Jaguars, being handily beaten and outcoached. The game wasn't all doom and gloom, though; multiple players showcased their talent. The tools are there, and a few adjustments could make a world of difference. Let's look at three of the biggest keys for the Panthers in Week Two.
Containing The Run
The Panthers were gashed by Travis Etienne in Week One. Etienne went big, rumbling for 143 rushing yards while averaging 8.9 yards per carry. A massive game for the Jaguars' running back, and a terrible sign for the previously bottom-ranked rush defense. In the offseason, the Panthers targeted big bodies for their defensive line, only to fall back into their old habits.
Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero favored a nickel defense, primarily in a cover two zone. The zone worked in containing the explosive passing game of the Jaguars, but failed in containing the run. The Cardinals pose a bigger rushing threat with the added danger of quarterback Kyler Murray. Murray is a dangerous rusher who can turn the game on its head with his legs alone. The former Heisman winner is also adept at throwing on the run. The Problem only begins with Kyler Murray; the Cardinals also have a premier running back in James Conner.
I would like to see more of the defensive line that they bolstered in the offseason. Derrick Brown, A'Shawn Robinson, and Bobby Brown should be more active in the defensive game plan. This is their first game together, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of them on the field. With the addition of Tershawn Wharton, who got injured in the Jaguars game, four big bodies should be able to clog the gaps. The Panthers also struggled to collapse the pocket and get to Trevor Lawrence, a pocket passer. Pressure will be key to containing Kyler Murray and preventing him from running all over them.
Tetairoa McMillian
Tetairoa McMillian is, as advertised, a stud in the making, and he deserves more designed touches. McMillian was constantly getting open and making plays to create space. The former Arizona receiver led the team in targets, receptions, and receiving yards. McMillian should be more active in pre-snap motions. There should be more attempts at creating mismatches with McMillian's size. With more McMillian motion, that should free up the other receivers, who have been having trouble getting open. The run game continues to be a force with Chuba Hubbard continuing to shine.
Offensive Line Play
Robert Hunt and Taylor Moton played great games last week, holding their own. Between the two, they only gave up one pressure. The Jaguars had 16 QBPs against Young, keeping him sweating in the pocket. Defensive End Josh Hines-Allen dominated backup tackle Yosh Nijman at the line of scrimmage. Allen was responsible for half of the QBPs with eight. Nijman has to step up to hold his own against the newly revamped Cardinals' defensive front. If he can't keep his own, Dave Canales needs to devise a plan to help him. The Panthers can't afford another week of a collapsing pocket, which forces Bryce Young out of his comfort zone.
Even though it was a disaster, it was only Week One. Ejiro Evero is running out of time to prove himself. With better defensive personnel acquired in the offseason, he has to put together a solid defensive showing against the Cardinals. Bryce Young is someone else who needs to step up this week. The walls are closing in on this Panthers team, and I don't know how many more chances they are liable to get.
