SB Nation - Ma'ake Kemoeatu

How To Hand Jake Delhomme His First Defeat in the Dome: Run, Baby, Run

saints-nation — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 13:00:22 -0000

by Bill Feig - AP

You'll have to forgive me for stealing Sheryl Crow's song title as part of the story headline but in this case it is quite apropos. After all, few things are as synonymous with football as a female singer/songwriter approaching her fifties, right? The Saints host the Carolina Panthers on Sunday and they'll have an opportunity to go 8-0 for the first time in Saints history. If there was ever a game where I would want the Saints the throw the ball less than 30 times, despite it being what they do best, this game would be it.

Panthers vs Saints coverage

Don't mistake me for saying I want the Saints to change the way they run their offense, or ignore what they do best. The Saints' bread and butter is when Brees runs a play fake and he's looking downfield for his crop of dangerous receivers. What I'm saying is I want the Saints to run the football in this game more than they ever have. That does not equate with don't pass, it equates with pass less and make the passes you do throw hurt more.

Some things to consider when coming up with a gameplan this weekend vs. the Panthers:

1. The Panthers' primary run stopper, Ma'ake Kemoeatu, is on injured reserve and is out for the season.

2. Two other defensive tackles (Louis Leonard and Corvey Irvin) are on injured reserve and out for the season.

3. The Panthers had to resurrect a corpulent 35 year old former Saint with asthma in Hollis Thomas to anchor their run stopping efforts.

4. The Panthers rank #1 in the league against the pass and #24 against the run. The Saints are 4th in the league in rushing (6th in passing).

5. The Saints average 4.5 yards per run, 10th best in the league, and the Panthers yield an average per run of 4.5 (good for 7th worst).

Plain and simple, if the Saints are getting 4.5 a pop per carry and the Panthers are giving up 4.5 per pop - the numbers work out pretty well. That's a first down after two downs of rushing if you're familiar with simple addition. I realize things don't always work out or unfold the way the stats would lead you to believe, but it's still a pretty simple formula. The Panthers can't stop the run and we're very good at it. For the last 3 years the Saints have been labelled as a "finesse team" or "soft", while Panthers football for as long as John Fox has been around has been predicated on running both the football and the clock whilst playing great defense. The beauty of this gameplan is we can give the Panthers a taste of their own medicine and beat them the way they've beat us consistently in recent years.

Oh, and one last thing. I hate Jake Delhomme. There, I said it. I hate that he comes back to Louisiana, hands us our tail, and runs his mouth up and down the sideline being as demonstrative as a buffoon. It's almost like he wants ME to know that he beat the Saints yet again in the Dome (and Tiger Stadium during the Katrina season). In case you didn't know, Jake Delhomme has never lost to the Saints in Louisiana as the QB for the Panthers. Sure, he says it's just another game in the media and seems passive enough... but I see him on the sidelines and I know better. Back when he was in New Orleans, I wanted him subbed in for Aaron Brooks when Brooks was injured. No need to rehash that, but the fact that the previous Saints' regime made an eggregious error and the fact that the current regime is still paying for it makes me sick. It makes me sick more than words can describe. I am sick of losing to Jake Delhomme at home. To be honest, I really don't even care how we do it, just beat Jake Delhomme. And you can believe that if we do, I'll be barking at him from where I'm sitting like a demonstrative buffoon. I'm pretty sure buffoons bark.

So let me ask you guys:

1. Will you be able to forgive me for the Sheryl Crow reference?

2. How effective will the Saints be running the ball against Carolina?

Worst Case, the loss of Kemoeatu or Smith?

LittleKing — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 02:03:28 -0000

More photos » by Chuck Burton - AP

4 months ago: Carolina Panthers' Steve Smith (89) catches a pass during the team's NFL football training camp in Spartanburg, S.C., Thursday, Aug. 6, 2009. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

Browse more photos »

With the news of Steve Smith injury, everyone's attention has changed from our lack of DT to lack of WR depth. While both are big issues, it made me wonder, which loss will have a bigger impact. The obvious answer appears to be the loss of Smith, but are we really sure. Let break down both scenarios.

Smith is a play maker, no question about this fact. He's one of the best receivers in the league and his presence on the field commands respect and if not given, will burn a defense like a California wildfire, mercilessly. Ma'ake Kemoeatu on the other hand was a big man, often demanding double teams. He may not be the a play maker but his presence made it easier for the rest of the defense.

Smith is a key part of the offense and often requires double coverage while Kemo is a big man that demanded double teams from the opposition's offensive line. Both require the opposition to commit two players to cover, leaving one less person on the field to cover another player. In turn, this improves the ability of everyone else on the field. One less defender the Delhomme has to look for when passing, one less defender Hoover has to block for Double Trouble, one less defender Muhammad or Jarret has to worry about being on them. For Kemo he makes it so Beason can more easily get through the offensive line to make the tackle for a lose, or for Peppers, Johnson, or Brown to get the sack.

What it all boils down to is the fact that we lack depth in several important areas and until we get into the season and see who is able to step up and deliver there will always be questions. So who's more valuable? Well because DT isn't a skill position he should be easier to replace and therefore of course losing Smith would be worse than losing Kemo. Duh!

Panthers DT Kemoeatu Schedules Surgery; Other Injury News

Jaxon — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 23:44:14 -0000

More photos » by Chuck Burton - AP

4 months ago: Carolina Panthers' Maake Kemoeatu gives a thumbs up to fans during the team's NFL football training camp in Spartanburg, S.C., Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2009. Kemoeatu injured his right leg during the team's first practice on Monday. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

Browse more photos »

Darin Gantt was a twittering beast today at Day 2 of Panthers Training Camp. The big news continues to be the bites of the fierce injury bug:

daringantt Rookie OL CJ Davis went down with a right ankle injury, after being doubled over by DT Corvey Irvin. Trainers working on him.

Nice to hear Irvin is showing some power. Tough break for Davis if he misses some time but he has to be a long shot to make the roster. Kemo has made a quick decision to go under the knife:

daringantt Kemoeatu having surgery tomorrow, not ready to rule out a Dec/Jan return. Can't imagine how that's possible

We will hope for a quick recovery big guy.

daringantt G Duke Robinson hauled off in cart. Didn't see him go down. Might be a heat thing

The heat always gets somebody the first couple days. An update on Robinson came soon enough:

daringantt#Panthers officials are now saying that G Duke Robinson left the field because of heat-related issues. The heat in Oklahoma must be drier.

Ummm...heat is usually dry. There is less humidity though in OK land. ;) Might there be something to Robinsons' conditioning issues?

In other camp news:

After we mentioned yesterday that DE Everette Brown was far too quick for fellow rookie Patrick Brown in one-on-ones, the blocker got his revenge Tuesday. If Everette can't the first step in, he's going to struggle against bigger, stronger linemen. It's just something he's going to have to figure out, because Patrick locked him down several times.

As Brown said himself his quickness will only get him so far in the NFL. Lets not put unrealistic expectations on this rookie. He might need a year to make an impact.

Forget any notion that turning 30 means anything to Steve Smith.

There were a few nice plays downfield, perhaps the best by WR Steve Smith, with a five-cut reverse run that left a number of players standing still, including DE Julius Peppers. I've always said that of the top 10 plays Smith ever made, only four were in games. It might be three now.

He's playing at a very high level...still.

Panthers Position Review – Defensive Tackle

Jaxon — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 20:59:09 -0000

In 2008 the Panthers carried four DT’s on their roster into the season opener against the Chargers, two starters (Kemo, Lewis) and two back-ups (Walker, Gibson). Though I expect both starters to remain the same this season both back-ups are no longer on the roster leaving a wide-open competition for those two back-up spots. The following post lists each DT on the roster and where they do or might fit into the Panthers plans.

Maake Kemoeatu – 6-5 345 8^th yr Utah – Starter at LDT

Kemo is one of the unsung players of the Panther defense whom I came to appreciate a lot more last season when he missed the last few games. You may recall the Panther defense got run all over in that stretch. The big guy is a pure run stopper (36 tackles, 31 solo) whos job is simply to occupy two or more blockers and clog up the middle running lanes. He remains a favorite of the Panthers staff and there is no doubt he will start at LDT come game one.

Damione Lewis 6-2 301 9^th yr; Miami (FL) - Starter at RDT

Though Lewis has performed better in a reserve role in his first season in Carolina (2007) I think he will remain the starter on the right side as long as his repaired shoulder holds up. Lewis is more of a pass rushing threat (3 sacks) from the DT spot than Kemo though he bested him in tackles (43) and solo tackles (33). Lewis was essentially an every down DT in 2008 but that could change in 2009 if one of the players listed below presents a better option either against the run or pass, but I’m not banking on I this year.

Corvey Irvin 6-3 302; Rookie 3^rd round pick; Georgia

I give Irvin the inside track on one of the back-up spots simply because the Panthers spent a 3^rd round draft pick on him. Irvin was known more as a run stopper in college, a ‘high-motor’ guy who could potentially develop into a pass rusher if he can combine his long arms with improved technique. Irvin was not highly recruited going into college yet he beat the odds to get to where he is today. I wouldn’t be surprised if that work ethic resulted in a starting assignment by the end of the 2009 season. He would have to completely bomb in TC to not make the roster. Roster Chance: 95%

Nick Hayden 6-4 292 02/04/1986 1 yr, Wisconsin

After spending most of his 2008 rookie season on the Panthers practice squad he finally got the call to replace the injured Damione Lewis and played in the final two games of the 2008 season. Though he didn’t do too much (3 tackles total) in those games he did enough to warrant continued execution of his contract. Whether that results in a roster spot come September though is anything but a sure thing. Roster chance: 60%

Marlon Favorite 6-1 317 UDFA Louisiana State

Favorite is the only remaining guy on this list I have heard of and he comes into Carolina with a lot to prove. He was a Top 100 recruit out of HS but never earned a starting job at LSU. Granted he played along some great LSU DT’s and he struggled with injuries but overall he has to be disappointed with how this has all played out. If Favorite can put all that out of his mind he could be a darkhorse to make the roster as the back-up to Kemo. Though shorter than ideal he is big, strong and plays the run very well. If the Panthers decide that the pass rush will come simply from the multiple DE sets then they may prefer to keep more run stoppers at DT to prevent a repeat of last years run defense collapse down the stretch. Roster Chance: 20%

Lorenzo Williams 6-0 310 1 yr Missouri

Williams is a 2^nd year player who has yet to play a down in the NFL. Williams spent most of the 2008 preseason with Baltimore before being waived at the end of August. Williams looks like another player who may compete for a back-up run stopper position but the odds are not in his favor. Good work in TC though could produce a practice squad placement as I’m sure the Panthers will want depth available at this position. Roster Chance: 10%

Justin Kershaw 6-4 271 UDFA Michigan State

Kershaw looks like an undersized DT looking to score a quick payday at TC for as long as he can ride the pony. I can’t think of a scenario where I guy like this makes the roster on his first shot. His best shot will be the practice squad at best. Roster Chance: 1%

Lonnie Harvey 6-3 342 UDFA Morgan State

Harvey is simply training camp meat, a huge body to beat on some of the o-linemen trying to make the roster. Roster Chance: Nil

UPDATE: I'll leave these guys for posterity, but both were waived on 6/26 to accommodate the signings of Mike Goodson and Tony Fiammetta.

Babatunde Oshinowo 6-1 305 1 yr Stanford

Though he only shows one season of NFL experience he has played in 2 games across two seasons for the Bears. Oshinowo has since bounced around a few training camps since the two year dance with the Bears. The Panthers signed him away from the Eagles PS shortly after the 2008 season ended. He’s a smart guy with a EE degree who could surprise anyone taking him lightly in camp. Still the odds are very low. Roster Chances: 5%

Patrick McDonald 6-2 265 1 yr Alberta

McDonald is a former CFL player that must be part of the Canadian intern program? He seems too small to play DT in the NFL and being from Alberta he just might prune up in the Carolina heat in August. Roster Chance: Nil >> Sun-dried Prune Chance: 80%

Update for McDonald: Hat Tip to MP for jogging my memory. McDonald was brought in to compete for the long snapping position though he is listed as a DT. You may recall that our 2008 long snapper Jason Kyle was listed as a LB.

Panthers Move to Tampa-2 Defense Might Be Complicated

Jaxon — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 18:32:23 -0000

It's a forgone conclusion that with the hiring of DC Ron Meeks the Panthers will move to the Tampa-2 defense. After watching their recent machinations to get under the salary cap I have to question that conclusion. If you are unfamiliar with the Tampa-2 and how it differs from a straight 4-3 you might want to read this first.

Before I get into that I have to touch on the post that got me going down this path. I was reading a very funny post from our Colts blogger who is predicting the Bucs defense is going to suck next year (good for us) because they hired former ~~Colts~~ Broncos DC Jim Bates. He went so far as to label a Bates defense as "Two Fatties in the Middle" defense. As I continued to read it suddenly lost its humor as it sounded more and more like the Panthers defense. He then describes how a no-huddle offense will quickly dispatch a ‘fatty' laden defense and sites specific cases.

But hey, I'm not too worried about our defense since we are moving towards the Tampa-2 defense, right? Wait...STOP!! I have to correct something else first...I cannot accept for a moment that our defense will be called the "Tampa" 2. Can we all agree on that? Would the Redskins ever name anything associated with the team "Cowboy"? Certainly not. So let's go with the term Cover-2 going forward, okay? Yes, I realize the Cover-2 is slightly different than the Tampa-2 but again...you get my point I hope.

Are the Panthers really moving to a Cover 2 or are we keeping our "Two Fatties in the Middle" 4-3 defense? One of the big differences in the two is the size of the DT's. The Colts blogger holds up Booger McFarland as the proto-typical Cover-2 DT. McFarland was 6'0" and 300 lbs but was/is very quick. He may actually be a little heavier than a Cover 2 DC might want. Is that what we currently have on our DL? Not exactly. DT Maake Kemoeatu runs 345 lbs and was just extended on his contract so he isn't going anywhere. On the other hand DT Damione Lewis is listed at 305 lbs. He has some quickness and just may be a good fit. We are still showing Gary Gibson on the roster, he runs 285 and of course Tyler Brayton has played DT at 280. Rookie Cheesehead Nick Hayden is at 290 but newly signed J'Vonne Parker is 325. My impression is that outside of Lewis I doubt any of these guys have the speed the Cover 2 DT needs.

So are the Panthers suddenly looking for a different type of DT than those we've been salivating over? Is speed now more important than size? If speed is the priority than we can cross BJ Raji (337 lbs), Ron Brace (330) and Chris Baker (326) off the draft chart. They are just too big and too slow. Others who don't have the size but are still considered too slow for the position would be Fili Moala (5.09 40), Alex Magee (5.05) and Vance Walker (5.33).

So who does that leave as possible Cover 2 DT's the Panthers might pursue? It still leaves highly rated Peria Jerry (299, 2.94), Ziggy Hood (300, 291) and Jerron Gilbert (288, 4.87). Borderline considerations might lie with Sen'Derrick Marks (306, 5.01) and Dorell Scott (312, 4.92) among the Top 12 on Walter Football.

Some later round options might be Corvey Irwin (301, 4.99), Ricky Jean-Francois (295, 4.83) and Clinton McDonald (285, 4.80). Prospect info courtesy of Walter Football.

To date I haven't heard of a fundamental shift in the defense from HC John Fox just assumptions based on Meeks hiring. If you go by the off-season moves to date there is no indication of a change. I doubt Fox will address such a question until at least after the draft. So I'll ask you fine friends of the feline nation. Are we switching to a Cover-2 or are we sticking with "Two Fatties in the Middle"? What is your preference?

Poll

What are you hoping the Panthers will do with their defensive scheme next year?

Stay with their base 4-3

49 votes

Switch to Meeks version of the Cover 2

82 votes

Switch to the 3-4

82 votes

Switch to something completely new and different

50 votes

263 votes | Poll has closed

Week 15: Panthers @ Giants Defensive Preview

LittleKing — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 04:17:07 -0000

We all know what's at stake this Sunday, first place for the NFC playoffs, but for the Panthers there's even more on the line. The Giants have already clinched a playoff spot, the Panthers have not. If the Panthers lose out and Dallas, Tampa, and Atlanta win out, we would miss the playoffs because of tie-breakers. While I see the chance of that happening at less than 5%, I would rather step through the front door instead of sneak in the back. Yet again, since we don't play until Sunday night, we may already know our playoff future, meaning since all three of those previous teams will have played, if any one of them lose we clinch at least a playoff spot.

Getting back to the Giants. Our opponent this week can be a monster on the field, with their strength being the ground game. Stat wise, while the Giants have the edge, for the majority we are closely matched. The one glaring difference-Panther rushing defense at 18th and the Giants rushing offense at #1. For the Panthers' defense this will be the biggest challenge.

Giants Team Stats - Game Averages

	Pts	Yrds	Pass	Rush
Off	26.7	348.5 (9th)	199.8 (18th)	148.7 (1st)
Def	17.6	285.8 (6th)	195.4 (10th)	90.4 (4th)

Panthers Team Stats - Game Averages

	Pts	Yrds	Pass	Rush
Off	25.2	341.0 (12th)	194.9 (21st)	146.1 (4th)
Def	18.9	315.9 (10th)	204.4 (12th)	111.5 (18th)

Not considering any inactive players (Plaxico mainly), both teams do have some concern at injury. The Panthers DT Maake Kemoeatu was seen using crutches and a boot after Monday's practice. Also, RG Keydrick Vincent had to leave the game early against Denver. For the Giants, Brandon Jacobs is uncertain, and during the Dallas game RT Kareem McKenzie and LG Rich Seubert both left with injuries. It to early to tell if any of them will be able to play. Both teams are saying very little about their situations right now.

My gut feeling is that Kemo has less than a 20% chance of playing, but pure speculation. For the Giants, I have no idea about their O-linemen, but for Jacob's my gut is telling me 75% chance of playing right now. If Jacob's is out, the impact of Kemo missing a game is reduced but still significant. And vice versa, if Jacobs plays and Kemo is out, that could be the difference in this game.

We are not sure how the Panthers will adjust for Kemo being out. Anything from rotating DT Darwin Walker and Gary Gibson, to moving over either DT Charles Johnson or Tyler Brayton, or a combination of these options. The good news is that we have played 3 DE at times in passing situations but we will have to see how they fair against the run.

These two teams are built very similarly as well, power running game to setup the pass. Both Jake Delhomme and Eli Manning are more game managers and both have very similar stats.

	Jake Delhomme	Eli Manning
Games	14	14
Att	375	433
Comp	221	261
Comp %	58.9	60.3
Passing Yards	2853	2938
Yards / Att	7.6	6.8
TD	14	20
INT	12	10
Comp for 1st down	133	151
Sacked	19	23
Passer Rating	82.0	86.4

For the Giants, missing two starters on their o-line could be trouble. The Giants are better at run blocking than pass blocking and if either or both of their starting line is out could spell trouble. They gave up 8 sacks to the Cowboys and now 23 for the season. With the high likelyhood of the Panthers need to use a 3 DE set, keeping Eli upright would be that much harder.

The keys for the Panthers on stopping the Giants is pressure on Manning when they have to throw and limit the ground attack (unless a miracle happens, we are not doing to shut it down). Regardless of who is starting on our defensive line, Jon Beason is going to have to play his best game of the season and dropping eight in the box is not out of the question.

This means Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas will have to work a lot of single coverage with only one safety up top. Before Plaxico Burress was suspended this was causing teams major problems. While the Giants still have quality receivers losing their best receiver changes the way you have to defend against them. Just imagine the consequences to the Panthers if we lost Steve Smith.

Defensively this game has loads of challenges. The Panthers offense have been hitting their stride and hopefully that continues but without getting into their challenges, let just say they cannot do it alone this week. Against the Broncos the defense had one of it's best days in quite a few games, but was it because the Broncos had no running attack or that our defense actually stepped up. Probably some of both, but we will find out Sunday for sure.

Correction: Incorrectly listed Travelle Wharton as leaving the game against Denver Updated to Keydrick Vencent.

MHR Chalk Talk -- Week 15 - Denver at Carolina

Steve Nichols — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 18:35:59 -0000

YOUR SOURCE FOR THE VERY BEST

IN DENVER BRONCO PRE-GAME ANALYSIS

MILEHIGHREPORT.COM

For Everything Panthers Related, Check Out CatScratchReader

Just how good is Denver? Earlier in the season, I wrote that Denver had a shot at anywhere from fourth to second seed in the AFC playoffs. The bad news is that the loss against Oakland wrecked any reasonable chance of second seed. The good news is that wins over the Jets and the Chiefs have catapulted Denver to the third seed.

Denver ranks 11th in the League, which is amazing considering the sheer number of injuries the team has faced (6th string RB anyone?). When factoring in the playoff requirements, Denver ranks third in the AFC, behind only TENN and PITT. If the playoffs were today, Denver would have a home game against Baltimore.

Is 8-5 anything to be ashamed of? Some in the media may try to spin it this way. But a look at other (if held today) playoff teams reveals the Jets, Cowboys, Vikings, and Cards all have the same 8-5 record. Baltimore, Indy, and TB each have just one more game at 9-4, and we've beaten TB.

Some may be concerned about the loss of Hillis. I think Hillis is the clear answer at RB for next year. I love his power running style, his ability to block, his ability to catch out of the backfield, and of course, his Mile High salute. But as MHR Chief Editor Guru points out, this team was winning without Hillis, and can keep winning behind what is becoming a legendary OL.

Facing the Panthers this week in Carolina, our young, playoff caliber team will face the toughest challenge of the year. The Panthers are one of four Superbowl Caliber teams, and this game will be an early indication of how deep the Broncos might deserve to go in the playoffs.

(Note: Panthers owner Jerry Richardson, the first former NFL player since George Halas to become a team owner, is in need of a heart transplant and has been placed on a donor waiting list. All of us at MHR wish Mr. Richardson the very best, and hope a donation match can be made soon)

The Panthers' Offensive Line and Running Backs - Smash and Dash

Let's break down the strengths of the Panthers. First, they have a devastating run block offensive line. Like Denver, they have a superman playing rookie tackle (Otah - RT). They also have powerful run blocking specialists at the FB and TE position. Because of what the line does, and because both WRs are excellent at crack back blocking, the Panthers feature a power running duo at RB who are big play threats (Williams and Stewart). The Panthers are nearly assured of 20+ yard gains in every game they play. In short, this team is designed to run over, around, and through anything that gets in their way.

If Denver's DL and LBs don't tackle on first contact, this game will get ugly very quick.

The Panthers have been moving away from the zone block system over a couple of years very slowly. It is still a big part of their gameplan, and not something they want to give up. But unlike Denver, they've been willing to go for a bigger OL and RBs who aren't natural one cutters. Is it the right move? It depends on your thinking. Denver is committed to only drafting / obtaining players who fit the system, so it should stay in Denver for a long time. The Panthers are ok with getting the best available in terms of OL and RB, regardless of scheme. Over time, they will be more focused on brute strength than agility. Both teams will have success, just along different paths.

The Panthers are not a flashy team. They are a true smash mouth team, only employing about five plays for the run (each with simple variants). They focus on power, size, and execution. Even an elite defense (and Denver is not one) is in trouble facing this Panthers team.

For the type of System that the Panthers employ, the critical key for Denver is simple in theory, but tough in execution. The first Bronco in contact with the RB must make the tackle. Arm tackles will not work, overpursuit will not work, and faulty gap assignments will not work. Our one gap DL must plug their gaps, and buy enough space for the LBs to swarm and bring down the runner. Plugging the gaps will be hard against the zone blockers, because the zone block eats up one gap players.

The other problem Denver faces is that the Panthers will likely use the running game to thwart Cutler's time on the field. Denver will need Cutler to have a big game if they are going to stop Carolina. If Carolina puts together a few drives with their running game and can win the time of possession battle, Denvers most potent weapon will spend much of the game watching from the sidelines.

Carolina's Pass Scheme and Personnel

Delhome is not the best QB in the League, but he doesn't have to be. All he has to do is manage the game, and keep the defense from focusing too heavily on the run. Delhome is blessed with an incredible line, incredible runners, but also very capable receivers. Steve Smith is an elite receiver, and attempts to double cover him can be punished by Mushin Muhammed on the other side. However, the drop off is severe. Muhammed is nowhere near the receiver Smith is. With Bly at RCB, Denver can more safely cover Smith with Bailey and keep a deep safety with his eye more towards Smith than anywhere else. At slot and beyond, the Panthers are thin and untalented.

Like the Denver WRs, the Panthers value WRs who can run block. Both starting receivers are effective on crack back blocks for sweeps, and both spend much of the game locking up with opposing CBs. They are both capable of playing physical football, but both like to get downfield to clear out the running lanes.

The Broncos are proud of Marshall, who, despite missing his first game, rapidly climbed to being a receiving leader. The Panthers have Smith. He missed the first two games, and is on a team that rarely throws the ball. He still manages to rank fifth amongst receivers in the League. That's pretty formidable.

Denver has the CBs to nuetralize the air threat, but Denver is unlikely to support the CBs with a second safety (they are very likely to put a safety in the box for the run game). Worse, even with a four man rush, Denver will have a very tough time mounting an effective pass rush. Denver will likely respect the run game enough to hold back on blitzing players, so Delhome will likely get in a few solid passes.

Delhome is a great manager. He is smart, a good leader, and acurate. He can be rattled if driven from the pocket, but Denver's defense doesn't present much of a pass rush.

Denver will be improved at safety, will get Bailey back at CB (most likely), and perhaps figure out a way to use some of the LBs who were hot in the absence of the three starters. But the overwhelming advantage on the CAR Offense versus the Denver defense has to go to Carolina.

Oddly, this is the one game all year where I'm ok with Denver playing 8 in the box. The only real threat in the passing game is Smith. Muhammed is completely outclassed by Bly, and one deep safety can focus more on Smith. Bly can be beat without the over coverage much of the time (he likes to play underneath), but his assignment this game is one of the easier ones he'll face this year.

The Panthers on Defense

Peppers is the big name, and at RDE is always a threat to get to the QB. Peppers also benefits from Lewis (RDT), who drives the gap between the LT and the LG, forcing the LT to account for the gap to his right.

However, I'm giving the benefit to Denver here. Hamilton (LG) and Clady (LT) are two of the best in the business. We are already on track for a legendary year for an OL, and I see no reason that changes here. Teams have tried bull rushing Clady, tricking him, scheming him, etc. So far, nothing has worked. Clady has faced some of the best DEs and OLBs (including Porter - MIA) the League has to offer, and he has dominated every one of them. In the worst beatings Denver has taken this year, no one has been able to figure out Clady. I will watch the Clady / Peppers match-up closely (if the game is televised in my area), but I feel confident in what Clady has to offer.

The rest of the DL is solid too, even if some names aren't household names. In fact, I even like the depth this team features at DL. Here again, the Denver OL is amazing in their pass blocking, and I am not too concerned about this aspect of the game.

The real dangerous effect of Carolina's DL match-up against Denver's OL, surprisingly, isn't the (Peppers' led) pass rush at all. A look at the Xs and Os in my mind says the real threat is Kemoeatu, a true two gap DT. He will require double coverage on run plays from Wiegmann and Kuper, and even in pass protection. He shouldn't make too many big plays himself, but makes the rest of the line more effective. As a coach, I would be more concerned about the resources we have to spend keeping Kemoeatu in check (we'll call it Kemo-therapy).

Kemo lines up at the LDT spot. This is because runs in the League favor the strongside. His powerful frame makes the cover two defense of the Panthers more effective. The double teams he demands mean less 2nd level runblockers for any of our runners. And while the Panthers don't get much of a pass rush without blitzers, Denver has to "waste" two players just to keep Kemo from slowly lumbering over to Jay.

I trust the Denver OL to protect Jay, and trust Jay will get away from most of what gets through. But because Jay will be throwing against a defense that is in zone much of the game, he'll need to tone down his aggressive when he does get flushed. (It would be nice to see Jay throw some of his passes away instead of forcing too much. It would also be nice to see some of the eligible receivers come back to Jay when he's in trouble, something we need to work on a little bit).

The LBs and DBs are all solid players, but nothing flashy. The defense plays as a team and uses tight coordination to get the most out of the players. While they rank in the middle of the League in most defensive categories, they play a solid game that requires an offense to limit mistakes. I've always thought that Chris Gamble was one of those CBs that doesn't get enough publicity. Watching him in his early years with Carolina, I always thought he was destined to be a starter and to be a big name someday. He's doing very well this year, and may start getting some recognition. Though he plays in a zone system, Gamble could make the switch easily to a man system if needed. But the LBs remain the core of the defense. The DL gives them the protection to stop runs, and they play their zones with the discipline to keep their own assignments.

Keys to the Game

Denver

Tackle on first contact. Denver will not stop the running game; I'm putting that in stone right here. But they must tackle on first contact to slow the running game if they are going to win. Carolina will gain heavily on the ground whenever the first tackle is blown (10 to 25 yards). We can't count on safeties to bring down either of the Carolina RBs.
Cutler must be patient. The cover two will provide multiple chances for Jay to throw INTs. Even with the Panthers eating up the clock, Denver must cut the pass defense with a hundred small cuts, instead of a few gashes.
Early lead. If Caroline has to start going to the air, we have taken them out of their strength; running. But getting the ealry lead needs to be done the right way; with short yardage completions, not long, risky, forced passes.

Carolina

Don't leave points on the field. Denver will try to win in a shootout. With the long, run based drives that Carolina brings to the game, they need to score on their possessions.
Use your players in zone, and skip the blitzing. The current incarnation of the Broncos OL is on track to be the most sackless OL ever, and that's with Denver passing on almost every down! Cutler also throws well outside of the pocket. If you really want to beat Cutler, just keep the back 8 (DBs and LBs) in zone, and let Cutler's aggressiveness beat himself. Cutler is likey to force some throws, and a player is more likley to take advantage in zone than getting a sack.
Win the turnover battle. Cutler may throw INTs, but Denver is as likely to make a fumble or two. Make sure you get to that ball when you have the chance. Denver's high power offense will take advantage when you don't.

Summary

I've only picked against Denver twice, and was wrong both times. I hope I'm wrong again this time.

Both teams have excellent offenses, though along very different lines. I expect Denver to score several times with their high powered offense against a defense that isn't as good as some we've seen. On the other hand, Carolina's run game won't be stopped. Only the Vikings DL can blunt a running game like Carolina has.

I expect the game to be high scoring, unless we turnover the ball a couple of times and Carolina eats the clock.

I'm also concerned about injuries. Carolina has a couple of injured players who won't make a difference. Still unknown is Bailey, Larsen, DJ Williams, Stokley, Young, and others. With a team as dominant as Carolina is, and with Denver a virtual lock for the playoffs, will Denver really want to risk some of their high profile players in this game?

Carolina is coming off a short week, but Denver is traveling to the east coast (even though they've won their east coast games so far this year). Carolina is playing for homefield in the playoffs, while Denver can sew up a playoff spot with a win (or a SD loss).

Last, a look at records and consistency make Carolina one of two teams likely to make the SB from the NFC. I still have Denver at 10-6 for the year, and a playoff appearance (with the fist round being a 50/50 propostion to win).

I give the edge to the Panthers, but I'll be the loudest fan supporting my team in my neck of the woods.

Go Broncos!

Arizona Cardinals Scout the Carolina Panthers Defense

cgolden — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 16:08:19 -0000

The Arizona Cardinals offense has gotten plenty of publicity this season as Kurt Warner is putting up MVP-type numbers and the trio of Fitzgerald, Boldin and Breaston create match-up problems on a weekly basis. The passing offense will face a stiff test this though as the Carolina Panthers secondary that ranks second in the league in yards per game and yards per attempt. The Cardinals struggle running the ball and they could be in for another long game on the ground considering that the Panthers allow just four yards per carry and rank 14th in yards per game.

When the Cardinals Throw the Ball: The Panthers corners are accomplished, talented veterans and they've very capable of turning Warner's day into a nightmare very quickly. Chris Gamble and Ken Lucas have combined for 16 passes defended and three interceptions. They will be charged with the huge task of keeping Fitzgerald and Boldin under wraps and off of the young safeties. Charles Godfrey at free safety is a rookie who was corner back at Iowa and Chris Harris a fourth year pro who will come down in the box on occasion. One interesting aspect of the Panthers secondary is that for being such a highly rated unit, they don't pick up a great deal of sacks (11) or interceptions (4). 21 teams have registered more sacks and 18 teams have picked off more passes which means that the onus will be on the offensive line to protect the quarterback and on Warner to protect the ball. This is a talented secondary and they don't need any extra help. Speaking of Panthers pass rush, the guy to keep an eye on will be Julius Peppers (four sacks) who will be going up against Mike Gandy. Gandy will likely need some help but if he can do a decent job of limiting Peppers' impact on the game, the Cardinals chance of winning will rise dramatically.

When the Cardinals Run the Ball: As I said in an earlier post, the Panthers run defense is very similarly ranked to the Cardinals. They both allow 4.0 yards per rush and they've given up the same number of 20+ and 40+ yard runs. The big name to remember in the Carolina run defense is second year middle linebacker Jon Beason who might have ended up as defensive rookie of the year last season, if not for Patrick Willis. He totaled 140 tackles last season and he's on pace for nearly 130 tackles this season. The middle of the front seven is anchored by experienced yet unspectacular veterans Damione Lewis (6'2 301) and Maake Kemoeatu (6'5 345). They're main job is too occupy blockers and let Beason roam from sideline to sideline. Lewis does have the ability at times to shoot a gap and blow up a play in the backfield or pick up a sack. Thomas Davis (OLB) and Charles Johnson (DE) anchor the side opposite of Julius Peppers and they're both young capable players. Teams haven't had a great deal of success running at these two, although the defense is somewhat vulnerable to rushes on the edge of the defense.

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When I look at the Carolina defense and how I think the Arizona Cardinals match up against them, I tend to think that this game will come down to the Cardinals ability to protect Warner and in turn how well Warner protects the football. One thing that does worry me is, I hope that Whiz doesn't look at their defense and try to attack them on the ground. Earlier in the season, we've seen them come out with a conservative game plan against teams with strong secondaries and weaker front sevens. I wouldn't be surprised at all to see them run the ball early, especially running directly at Julius Peppers to try and wear him down. We know that this offense is built around the passing game and I hope that their plan is to attack and impose their will instead of letting the defense dictate. Thoughts? What kind of gameplan should they take to Carolina? Can they protect Warner and air it out?

Official Carolina Panthers/Minnesota Vikings Injury Reports

Gonzo — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 00:14:45 -0000

Well, folks, it's Friday, and that means it's time for a check of the injury reports for both of the teams involved in this Sunday's clash at the Metrodome. Oh, and there's one name on the injury reports that Vikings fans probably aren't going to like too terribly much.

We'll start with the visiting Carolina Panthers.

Player	Position	Injury	Friday Practice	Game Status
Matt Moore	QB	Fibula	DNP	Out
Travelle Wharton	G	Knee	DNP	Out
Ryne Robinson	WR	Knee	Limited	Doubtful
Chris Harris	S	Thigh	DNP	Questionable
Tyler Brayton	DE	Ankle	Limited	Questionable
Na'il Diggs	LB	Shoulder	Limited	Questionable
Chris Gamble	CB	Shoulder	Limited	Questionable
Ma'ake Kemoeatu	DT	Illness	Limited	Questionable
Richard Marshall	CB	Thigh	Limited	Questionable

That's a LOT of folks to have listed as "Questionable." I'm trying to find a little more information on which of those guys are going to play and which are going to sit out, and as soon as I can find something I'll pass it along to everybody.

Now, on to the Beloved Purple. The injury list is significantly longer than it has been over the past few weeks, and that's never a good sign when you're preparing to play a team as physical as the Panthers.

Player	Position	Injury	Friday Practice	Game Status
Madieu Williams	S	Neck	DNP	Out
Adrian Peterson	RB	Hamstring	Limited	Questionable
Sidney Rice	WR	Knee	Limited	Questionable
Maurice Hicks	RB	Foot	Full	Probable
Ellis Wyms	DT	Concussion	Full	Probable
Aundrae Allison	WR	Foot	Limited	Probable
Bernard Berrian	WR	Foot	Limited	Probable
Artis Hicks	OL	Elbow	Limited	Probable
Darren Sharper	S	Shoulder	Limited	Probable
Tarvaris Jackson	QB	Coaching Ignorance	Limited	Doubtful

Hey. . .any names stand out to anybody there? (Besides that last one, which I may or may not have made up.)

Yes, folks, Adrian Peterson is going to be a game-time decision with a hamstring injury that he got in last week's loss to Indianapolis. If I were a betting man, I would guess that he was going to play and that they're just being cautious with him, but at this point I know just as much as you do.

More on this game over the course of this evening and into tomorrow. Until then, enjoy the rest of your Friday, and we'll see you back here again soon!