SB Nation - Gary Barnidge

Bills Fantasy Friday: Week 8 Start 'Em/Sit 'Em

Kurupt — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:52:58 -0000

Welcome back once again to Fantasy Friday here at Buffalo Rumblings. The Buffalo Bills are coming off back-to-back road victories in consecutive weeks for the first time since 2004, as they return home to host the streaking Houston Texans. The Texans have won three of four and have six straight games in which they have scored over 20 points. Buffalo's defense posted another solid performance last week against the sagging Panthers, despite giving up a lot of yards once again. They did a nice job of keeping the Panthers off the scoreboard and forcing four more turnovers after forcing six the week before. This week's game against the Texans poses a much stiffer challenge to the vulnerable Bills defense. Those Texans also bring in a defense that has allowed nearly as many yards as the Bills, in addition to three points more per game. Both teams have individual players that can make some noise for your fantasy teams this week. Join me after the jump for recommendations on how to handle them this week.

Quarterbacks
Matt Schaub - So far this season, Schaub has been one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL and possibly the best fantasy quarterback to date. He leads the NFL with 2,074 yards passing and 16 touchdowns, completes almost 66% of his passes, averages 8.3 yards per attempt and sports a 104.4 QB rating that makes us all jealous. He's finally becoming everything the Texans hope he'd be when they acquired him from Atlanta a few years ago. The Bills' pass defense has had its moment so far this season. They currently rank 10th in the NFL in passing yards allowed per game, although part of me believes they're legit while part of me believes that's due to having a terrible run defense and facing a slew of crappy quarterbacks. What is legit is the 5.8 yards per attempt allowed, the 58.0 QB rating they've given up and even the NFL best 13 interceptions. They can be taken advantage of, however. Jake Delhomme (!) threw for over 300 yards last week, but in typical Delhomme fashion he literally threw the game away. I don't think Schaub will be doing that this week. Start him as you always would, but watch out for inclement weather. Verdict: Start 'Em

Ryan Fitzpatrick - As much as some Bills fans may want to think otherwise, Fitzpatrick has been pretty terrible these past two weeks. He's averaging 120 yards per game, 5.1 yards per attempt and is completing less than 45% of his passes. He's in the same league as the Derek Anderson and JaMarcus Russell's of the NFL. Don't even think about starting him even against the Texans middle of the road pass defense. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Running Backs
Steve Slaton - Slaton has been somewhat of a fantasy disappointment, although he really isn't one. His rushing numbers are way down from last season when he rushed for almost 1,300 yards, 80 yards per game, 4.8 yards per carry and 9 touchdowns. This season he's down to 49 yards per game, 3.1 yards per carry and 2 touchdowns. Pretty frightening numbers, I'd say. He's made up for those numbers by putting up excellent numbers in the Texans' passing game, which has really helped Schaub light up the fantasy world. Thus far, Slaton has caught 27 passes for 304 yards and 3 touchdowns, helping maintain his top 10 fantasy RB status. Look for his success to continue this week. I expect his rushing numbers to increase this week while his receiving totals continue to stay strong. 130 total yards and a touchdown or two seems like a pretty reasonable expectation this week. He's an every week starter, anyhow. Verdict: Start 'Em

Marshawn Lynch - Despite a juicy match-up against a poor Panthers run defense last week, Lynch and the running game again struggled. The Texans have allowed roughly 115 yards per game and 4.7 yards per carry, along with a whopping 10 rushing touchdowns so far this season. Opportunities will again be there for Lynch to have a strong game. Unfortunately, with the offensive line continuing to struggle, expectations should remain tempered. It wouldn't surprise me if he posted solid numbers this week as the team will likely ride him early and often. He reached the end zone for the first time last week, and with the Texans struggles there, it wouldn't be too surprising if he walked into the end zone again this week. The Bills need to get him more involved in the passing game again as he's caught just three total passes the past two games. Lynch is definitely a starter as a flex this week, while starting him as a RB2 is a bit more risky. Verdict: Start 'Em in all

Fred Jackson - Jackson has pretty much fallen off the fantasy radar after his hot start. He gave fantasy owners a total of 2 rushing yards last week. Expect the struggles to continue as his touches continue to dwindle. Until he has a bounce back game, you should be looking elsewhere. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Wide Receivers
Andre Johnson - Johnson left last week's victory over San Francisco with a bruised lung after he began coughing up blood. He practiced Thursday and looks good to go. Bruised lung, bloody lung, no lung, it wouldn't matter. Johnson is an every week starter and one of the best in the league. As a Bills fan, just hope he doesn't kill us too badly. Verdict: Start 'Em

Kevin Walter - Walter has been very disappointing so far this season after a solid 2008 that saw him put up 899 yards and 8 touchdowns. He has just 18 catches for 232 yards and a touchdown this year while the Texans have turned elsewhere (RB and TE) for production. He's definitely a guy you want to stash on your bench at this point because he can become a bigger factor at any time, but don't start him. Remember, the Bills have allowed just one touchdown to a WR all season. There are plenty of better options this week. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Jacoby Jones - Jones and David Anderson rotate as the 3rd WR, but neither has a huge role in the offense. Jones does find the end zone though, having scored four touchdowns already this season, three receiving and one kick return. He also had a punt return touchdown nullified by penalty last week. If you are in need of a bye week fill-in, Jones could be a nice sleeper option for you, especially if return yards and touchdowns factor into your league's scoring. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Lee Evans - Evans has seen a return to relevance with Fitzpatrick under center. He has 9 catches for 143 yards and 2 touchdowns the past two weeks and looks to have a good match-up this week. Fitzpatrick has really looked Evans' way as he accumulated 20 total targets against the Jets and Panthers (he has just 48 for the season). Expect that to continue. I said I wouldn't recommend using him again, but I feel almost compelled to do so for one week only. Assuming the weather is okay, I expect Fitzpatrick to continue trying to get Evans heavily involved, including another deep ball or two. With some good receivers on bye again this week (Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Chad Ochocinco, Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes, Dwayne Bowe), Evans makes for a good one week start. I'm going to go ahead and do it, so you know who to blame when he catches just one pass this week....Verdict: Start 'Em

Terrell Owens - Owens looks nothing like the player he once was. At this point, it's a positive if he simply catches a pass thrown his way. His hands and concentration seem to have completely vanished. There's no way I would suggest starting him any time soon. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Tight Ends
Owen Daniels - Daniels is one of the best and most athletic tight ends in the NFL. He's also an excellent pass catcher and is really the Texans' #2 receiver. The Bills have struggled all season with TE's, including last week's 9 receptions and 135 yards they allowed to the Panthers' "dynamic" trio of Dante Rosario, Jeff King and Gary Barnidge. Daniels is coming off a 7-reception, 123 yard, one touchdown performance against the 49ers, and scored 2 touchdowns the prior week. All signs point to similar results this week. Like Andre Johnson, Daniels is a no-brainer every week. Verdict: Start 'Em

Shawn Nelson - It's too bad Nelson continues to miss practice (and likely this game) due to migraines because he'd have a chance to put up some big numbers against the Texans. Last week Vernon Davis abused the Texans secondary deep over the middle. It would have been nice to see Nelson get the opportunity to face that unit, but it's looking unlikely. Derek Fine isn't an option here, either. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Kickers
Kris Brown - Kicking for a prolific offense is always a good thing, though Brown hasn't had the attempts he's gotten in year's past. With just six field goals in nine attempts so far this season, Brown is on pace to finished with barely half of the 29 FG's he made last year. He makes for a good play this week, though. The Bills continue to do a decent job of keeping teams out of the end zone, so look for Brown to get some attempts this week. Verdict: Start 'Em

Rian Lindell - He put up two FG's and two extra points last week, justifying a start. I'll go back to the well and say Lindell gets multiple chances again this week. Verdict: Start 'Em

Defense/Special Teams

Houston D/ST - The Texans have picked off just four passes and sacked the quarterback nine times. They aren't much of a fantasy defense, though Fitzpatrick is liable to self-destruct at any time. I understand why some would start the Texans this week, but I don't think the unit is good enough to go with. Go pick up Arizona or San Diego's defense if you need a D/ST. Verdict: Sit'Em

Buffalo D/ST - The Bills have forced 10 turnovers the past two weeks, and added four sacks. They aren't facing Mark Sanchez or Jake Delhomme this week, though. It's hard to imagine them having another productive fantasy performance against Schaub and the Texans' offense. Verdict: Sit'Em

Sleepers

Jacoby Jones - As mentioned above, Jones could be a nice sleeper option for those of you who get points for return statistics this week. With a heavy dose of attention being paid to Johnson and Daniels by the Bills secondary, Jones could see himself with some advantageous coverage on offense. He's a big play guy who could burn the Bills this week.

Terrell Owens - Eh, why not? There aren't too many other options on the Bills to surprise. Owens has been terrible this season, and there aren't too many fantasy owners counting on him anymore. Therefore, he now is relegated to sleeper status at best. Maybe this is all he needs....everyone writing him off giving him even more ammunition to have a huge week. Well, we can hope, can't we?

*****

Tough match-up for the Bills defense this week, as they'll have their work cut out for them against some of the top individual fantasy players in the league. Look for the Texans to accumulate a ton of yardage, but touchdowns may again be harder to come by against the Bills. Let's just hope the Bills offense shows some life this week, too. As always, good luck and use this comments section to discuss all of your fantasy needs!

Breaking Down Panthers' Turnovers in Loss to Bills

Ryan Basen — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 22:00:54 -0000

More photos » by Rick Havner - AP

Buffalo safety Jairus Byrd returns his second-half interception inside the Carolina 30 on Sunday. (AP Photo/Rick Havner)

Browse more photos »

The Panthers dominated play on offense and defense Sunday, outgaining Buffalo 425-167 and posting 20 first downs, to just 9 for the Bills. Yet the Panthers lost 20-9, stopping a two-game winning streak with a home loss to a mediocre team.

How did they lose, then? If you have been following the Panthers for a while and you missed the game, you could probably answer that question. That's right, more turnovers -- mostly by Jake Delhomme. The quarterback threw three more picks Sunday, giving him 13 on the season. The Panthers also muffed a punt and failed to convert a fourth-and-short play. Essentially they turned the ball over to Buffalo five times; the Bills did not turn it over at all.

Make no mistake. This was not all Delhomme's fault. The entire team self-destructed. John Kasay, who has made more than 80 percent of his field goal attempts dating to the start of the 2006 season, missed 43- and 39-yard attempts in perfect conditions when the Panthers trailed only 7-2. And while the Buffalo defense stuffed the Panthers on their first red-zone trip, the Carolina defense allowed Buffalo to score touchdowns on its first two red-zone opportunities. That put Carolina behind 14-2 in the fourth quarter.

But the biggest difference were the change-of-possession plays. Here's a look at the four turnovers and fourth-down failure:

Situation: First-and-10, Carolina 13. 5:30 to play in the first quarter. 0-0 score.

Formations: The Panthers lined up in I-formation with two tight ends. The Bills were in a 4-3 with a corner playing press coverage on the Panthers' wide receiver.

What happened: A tight end went in motion right, drawing a Bills defensive back across the field. Delhomme faked a handoff to tailback DeAngelo Williams and threw deep down the middle of the field for tight end Gary Barnidge. Buffalo safety Jairus Byrd picked off the pass at the Carolina 45 and returned it to the Panthers 7.

How it happened: Buffalo rushed four linemen and Delhomme had all day to throw. But he threw high, failing to step into the throw. Instead he threw off his back foot, using mostly his arm. Barnidge ran right by two Bills and came open across the middle. Byrd was late to arrive in coverage, but the ball sailed over Barnidge and landed right in Byrd's hands. He then had plenty of room to run on the return.

The result: First-and-goal for Buffalo. Two plays later Marshawn Lynch scored on a run to put Buffalo ahead -- to stay.

Situation: Fourth-and-1, Buffalo 13. 6:10 to play in the third quarter. 7-2 Buffalo.

Formations: The Panthers used the I with an extra tight end lined up right and a receiver split left. The Bills lined up with nine players in the box, one deep safety and a corner in press coverage.

What happened: Tailback Jonathan Stewart took the handoff, ran left and was stuffed for a 2-yard loss. Linebackers Chris Draft and Paul Posluszny made the initial hit, then Byrd flew in and finished Stewart off.

How it happened: In the second quarter, trailing 7-0, Panthers coach John Fox attempted a field goal on fourth-and-short. Kasay missed a 43-yard attempt and later in the second he missed the 39-yard attempt. Fox chose to go for the first down this time, even though this kick would have been a chip shot -- 30 yards -- and would have cut Buffalo's lead to 7-5 with more than 20 minutes still to play and the Bills offense nearly hopeless.

As Stewart took the handoff, the offensive linemen went low and took out the Bills' linemen. But the Carolina fullback went low on Draft and missed him. Left tackle Jordan Gross blocked a defensive end, then flailed at Posluszny. Nobody else attempted to block Posluszny. He and Draft stuffed Stewart's momentum and as the back continued to fight, Byrd zipped up from free safety and wrestled him to the ground.

The result: The Panthers wound up without any points after moving 73 yards in five plays to the Buffalo 13. They still trailed by five points.

Situation: Second-and-6, Carolina 39. 1:20 to play in the third. 7-2 Buffalo.

Formations: The Panthers went three-wide with two backs. Buffalo was in a 4-3 with a linebacker showing blitz over right tackle and corners in press coverage. One safety was deep, and the other six yards off the line of scrimmage over right tackle.

What happened: Delhommed faked a handoff to Stewart and threw over the middle for receiver Steve Smith at the Buffalo 44. The ball was high, Smith leaped and tipped it, and Byrd intercepted the carom. Byrd returned the pick to the Carolina 27.

How it happened: The Bills rushed four linemen and Delhomme had plenty of time to throw. He spotted Smith, who beat Drayton Florence on a simple drag route across the middle. Delhomme again failed to step into the throw, using mostly his arm. The ball sailed high. Byrd was again late in coverage, standing four yards behind Smith as the ball arrived. But the tip went right to him.

The result: The Bills had a first down inside the Carolina 30. Buffalo's most effective drive of the day, six plays and 27 yards, then yielded a touchdown pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick to Lee Evans. (An egregious roughing the passer penalty inside the 10 may have cost Carolina four points). The Bills now led by two scores.

Situation: Buffalo ball, fourth-and1, at the Buffalo 45. 5:30 to play in the fourth quarter. 17-9 Bills.

Formations: Both teams lined up expecting a Buffalo punt. The Panthers set up a return for Kenneth Moore.

What happened: Brian Moorman hit a line-drive punt that traveled 40 yards. Moore settled under it at the Carolina 15, but muffed it. He dove on the ball but it squirted free. The Bills recovered at the 20 and advanced it three yards.

How it happened: Because of the punt's short hang time, Moore had a lot of space up the middle on a potential return. The ball hit his hands, then bounced off his shoulder pads and fell to the ground. Moore's head was pointed straight ahead as he attempted to catch the ball. Perhaps he took his eyes off the ball when he saw all that running room.

The result: Buffalo took over at the Carolina 17. The Bills then got one first down, forced the Panthers to use their final timeout and kicked a 20-yard field goal on the first play after the two-minute warning to go up again by two scores.

Situation: Second-and-14 at the Buffalo 49. 1:39 to play in the fourth. 20-9 Buffalo.

Formations: The Panthers lined up in the shotgun with three receivers and one back. Buffalo was in a prevent defense with four linemen and one linebacker. Three corners were in press coverage.

What happened: Delhomme pumped, then threw deep down the middle for Barnidge. George Wilson intercepted the overthrown pass inside the Buffalo 10.

How it happened: Delhomme again had no pressure, but again he failed to step into the throw. Throwing off his back foot, he overthrew Barnidge by several yards. Barnidge was well-covered and Wilson was playing centerfield. He easily picked it off.

The result: Game over.

Panther Paw Prints - 2009 Season Kick-Off Edition

Jaxon — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:28:59 -0000

So what seemed like an eternity away last January has finally arrived. The Panthers can finally put the horrid finish of 2008 behind them and begin afresh with a home opener against the NFC contender Eagles. This edition of Paw Prints starts with some news from the Panthers locker room:

Darin Gantt's Panthers Blog | The Herald - Rock Hill, SC
It speaks to Pep's reputation in the locker room to have been voted a captain after doing everything he could to leave here earlier in the year.

Does it really? I'm still trying to figure this one out. Don't get me wrong, I love the notion of Pep being a leader on this team but he's never given that indication before. Has Peppers actually decided that he WANTS to be a leader?

Munnerlyn ready to man returner's spot - CharlotteObserver.com
Rookie cornerback Captain Munnerlyn said Wednesday he expects to be the Carolina Panthers' punt returner in Sunday's season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. Munnerlyn said he was told before practice he'll fill the role and he had about 10 repetitions catching punts.

Let's put some sticky stuff on his fingers please. Seriously, I think Munnerlyn will do well. The kid has done some growing up and presents the best opportunity to break a nice return at this point now that Mark Jones is out of the picture for the moment. In another line up move, its being reported TE Jeff King will start over upstart Gary Barnidge. What? Did you forget Fox's preference for veterans to a fault?

It looks like Jeff King has won back the starting tight end spot he briefly lost in training camp. King, the starter since 2007, is one of three tight ends on the roster, along with Gary Barnidge and Dante Rosario. "We all compete and we all want to be on the field," said King. "But someone else controls that."

There are those in Pittsburgh who think the Panthers got a steal in signing DT RaShon 'Sonny' Harris. Read the comments after the post via the link below.

NFL from the sidelines: Sonny Harris gone
The Carolina Panthers must have liked what they saw of Sonny Harris Thursday night as much as I did. The Panthers signed Harris to their 53-man roster.

Just like last season the Panthers lead off with a Super Bowl contender. Well according to Fox Sports anyway.

NFL - - FOX Sports on MSN
1. At the beginning of the year, my Super Bowl pick is always based on emotion. I'm picking the Philadelphia Eagles. Donovan McNabb and Andy Reid deserve a Super Bowl title after agreeing to take on the Michael Vick rehabilitation project. I've always been a huge McNabb fan. He personifies class. I've never been that big on Reid because he hasn't given McNabb the necessary supporting cast. Well, Reid and McNabb stepped up big for Vick. McNabb can show Vick how to prepare like a professional. If he's willing to listen to and learn from McNabb and Reid, Vick could be the NFL's most valuable trade option during the 2010 offseason and be in position to land another lucrative contract.

Here's a clay pigeon.. err...Eagles with a target on his back

Eagles rookie (FS Macho Harris) thrust into starting role | Philadelphia Inquirer | 09/10/2009
"Against tight ends, they're a little physical and big, so I have to bring a little more weight with that. I have to use my speed and quickness to beat them. I'm physical. I consider myself a physical player. The physical part is no problem, but what I have over them is my speed and quickness. At free safety, you get to be around the ball a lot. At corner, you get one or two shots a game and you have to make the best of it."

Panthers OC Jeff Davidson will get major grief from this site if he fails to try and exploit the rookie CB converted to FS...The Panthers have a few admirers of the o-line in the Quaker State:

Paul Domowitch: Panthers' offensive line works well together | Philadelphia Daily News | 09/08/2009
"Half of being a good offensive line is knowing each other and knowing how each other plays," said the Panthers' Pro Bowl left tackle, Jordan Gross. "We got that out of the way last year. There's really no excuse for us not to be a good unit, and hopefully, build off what we did last year."

NFL Power Rankings places the Panthers at #18. Someone please tell me what the resignation of the Richardson boys has to do with what happens on the field? No end to the disrespect.

NFL Power Rankings topped by Patriots, Steelers, Packers - Don Banks - SI.com
Carolina Panthers Another team I've obviously lost confidence in since late July. The Panthers looked dreadful in their 0-4 preseason, and then there's this whole messy deal of owner Jerry Richardson firing both his sons from team management. It's hard to see some sort of championship vibe rising out of all that. Starting the season with Philadelphia, at Atlanta, at Dallas may ensure this thing keeps right on snowballing.

Think beating the Eagles will change?

Panthers Release Depth Chart with a Few Surprises

Jaxon — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:20:30 -0000

Panthers.com has now posted a depth chart and it has a few surprises worth discussing. I agree it doesn't mean too much at this point but I think it does reflect some things we have already seen in Training Camp. Let's start with the offense:

Offense:

WR1 — Steve Smith, Ryne Robinson, Jason Carter, Kevin McMahan
LT — Jordan Gross, Patrick Brown, Mackenzy Bernadeau
LG — Travelle Wharton, Jonathan Palmer, C.J. Davis
C — Ryan Kalil, Justin Geisinger, Mackenzy Bernadeau, Keith Gray
RG — Keydrick Vincent, Duke Robinson, Justin Geisinger
RT — Jeff Otah, Geoff Schwartz, Gerald Cadogan, Garry Williams
TE — Jeff King, Gary Barnidge, Dante Rosario, Andrew Davie
WR2 — Muhsin Muhammad, Dwayne Jarrett, Kenneth Moore, Marcus Monk
QB — Jake Delhomme, Josh McCown, Matt Moore, Hunter Cantwell
FB — Brad Hoover, Tony Fiammetta
RB — DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart, Mike Goodson, Decori Birmingham

In spite of the high praise sent his way in TC C/G Mackenzy Bernadeau is still 3rd string at center and is not listed at guard anywhere. He is instead listed 3rd string at LT (huh?). Justin Geisinger is #2 at center and has obviously improved his stock given he can play multiple positions.
T Gerald Cadogan is listed as 3rd string RT behind Geoff Schwartz. Patrick Brown is slated as Jordan Gross back-up on the left side where I thought Cadogan would compete. This doesn't bode well for Cadogan.
TE Gary Barnidge has passed Dante Rosario (no surprise there)
WR Ryne Robinson remains ahead of Jason Carter.

Defense:

LDE — Tyler Brayton, Charles Johnson, Everette Brown
LDT — Nick Hayden, Marlon Favorite, Lonnie Harvey, George Hypolite
RDT — Damione Lewis, Corvey Irvin, Lorenzo Williams
RDE — Julius Peppers, Everette Brown, Hilee Taylor, Casper Brinkley
OLB1 — Na’il Diggs, James Anderson , Landon Johnson, Kelvin Smith
MLB — Jon Beason, Dan Connor, Jeremy Leman
OLB2 — Thomas Davis, Mortty Ivy, Anthony Heygood
LCB — Chris Gamble, Dante Wesley, Captain Munnerlyn
RCB — Richard Marshall, C.J. Wilson, Sherrod Martin, D.J. Clark
SS — Chris Harris, Nate Salley, Joe Fields
FS — Charles Godfrey, Quinton Teal, Paul Chiara

The biggest surprise here is LB James Anderson is listed above Landon Johnson. Cutting Johnson might save some cap space if Mortty Ivy can fill the #7 back-up LB spot.
DE Tyler Brayton is still listed over Charles Johnson
DT Corvey Irvin is slotted behind Damionne Lewis at RDT and not LDT. It looks like until a vet DT is brought in Nick Hayden and Marlon Favorite will battle for the Kemo's spot.

Special Teams:

K — John Kasay, Rhys Lloyd
P — Jason Baker, John Kasay
H — Jason Baker, Josh McCown
PR — Ryne Robinson, Larry Beavers, Captain Munnerlyn
KR — Ryne Robinson, Mike Goodson, Larry Beavers
LS — J.J. Jansen

Robinson is still getting the benefit of the doubt in kick returns. Beavers over Munnerlyn so far and Goodson over Beavers in KO's.

Any other surprises for anyone else?

Panthers Week 1 TC Stock Watch

Jaxon — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:30:17 -0000

After one week at Panthers Training Camp there is already movement in the predicted final roster. Some players are building on their OTA performance and others are still stuck in neutral.

The following players have improved their stock:

JJ Jansen - Long Snapper

With the release of J3's primary competition in Nick Sundberg Jansen's stock went golden. As long as he avoids multiple blunders in preseason he should secure a roster spot.

Gary Barnidge - TE

Barnidge continues to build on his good work from OTA"s and is now seeing reps with the first team. Though he is a lock for the roster if he continues his good work into the preseason he good secure the #2 TE spot and see some work on 3^rd down going into the season.

Dan Conner - LB

With Jon Beason watching from the sidelines nursing a hamstring tweak Conner has shown he could step right in if needed. Though I don't expect him to overtake Beason or even SLB Na'il Diggs for a starting slot he could get into a rotation at some point.

Quinton Teal - S

Teal has shown some much needed ball-hawking skills in TC as he displays an aggressive nose for the ball. Where he may have appeared vulnerable coming into OTA's due to his previous UDFA status he continues to show he belongs in this league.

Jason Carter - WR

Carter looks to have picked up right where he left off prior to a leg injury last TC. If Dwayne Jarrett struggles or fails to gain the confidence of the coaching staff Cater could move into the #3 spot with no other challenger stepping up.

Stock is moving down:

Dante Rosario - TE

With Barnidge moving up that can only mean Rosario is moving down. Darin Gantt recently compared Rosario to a one trick pony, a pass-catching TE who struggles to block. That description does not bode well for a TE in this Panthers offense and pretty much explains why Rosario disappeared after game 1 in 2008.

Duke Robinson - OG

The concern about Robinson coming into TC was his conditioning. The fact he is having a hard time with the heat may indicate he has yet to get in game shape. Though I still expect Robinson to make the roster he may end up in the #9 OL slot and ride the ‘inactive' pine all season.

Ryne Robinson - KR/PR/WR

Robinson continues to be treated with kid gloves as they bring him back slowly. The problem is that as a result his competitors are getting more looks and opportunity to take his job. Though Robinson hasn't done anything wrong he also hasn't grabbed his opportunity and shown he can be the return guy. The longer he waits to long his chances of winning the job get.

Panthers Training Camp Day 4 & 5 Report

Jaxon — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 14:53:23 -0000

More photos » by Chuck Burton - AP

4 months ago: Carolina Panthers' DeAngelo Williams (34) is shown during the team's NFL football training camp in Spartanburg, S.C., Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2009. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)

Browse more photos »

The following is a summary of the key happenings from day 4 and 5 of Panthers TC. Since we can't get a way from injury news lets start with that and then discuss the positive developments.

cpanthers#JohnFox also said WR #Dwayne Jarrett banged his wrist in practice. Jarrett returned to the field after being hurt.about 17 hours ago from web.

Jarret is back in action on Day 5. These three remain out:

cpantherscpanthersDid not practice: OL C.J. Davis (ankle), LB #ThomasDavis (knee) and LB #JonBeason (knee).

When asked about the effect of injuries Panthers GM Marty Hurney had this response:

Camp Confidential: Panthers eye next step - NFC South - ESPN
"It starts with having enough depth to sustain," Hurney said. "Different things happened in different seasons in the past. But drafting well and having a young base is really important as far as staying ahead of the game and not having to go out in free agency and bring in guys a lot. If you draft well and bring those guys up, you have a continuity in there that should keep you competitive. Continuity is a result of bringing in the right guys from the start."

Come on Marty, you know if you had the cap space you'd have a couple FA's in here right now competing for back-up spots on both lines.

Here's a key development in the return game:

-- We're starting to figure some things out in the return game. They were working on punts Thursday, and the sad reality is that RB Mike Goodson can't really catch them.

Special teams coach Danny Crossman was putting them through drills before practice, asking them to catch a pass, then field punts one-armed.

At several junctures, Goodson looked like a juggler in a circus. It's weird, for a guy with good hands in the passing game, this seems to stump him.

He might return kicks, but punts aren't in his future.

If this holds then Ryne Robinson has one fewer guy to beat out. From the same link:

-- It's way early, but LS J.J. Jansen looks to my untrained eye to snap a tighter ball than Nick Sundberg.

P Jason Baker saved both of them yesterday during field goal drills, picking balls up to place them.

I said it months ago, if there's one decision this offseason they'd regret, it's letting Jason Kyle go. Maybe they can go sign Kevin Houser later, but only if he leaves his stock tips at home.

This is cause for concern in my view. Here's some positive plays from practice:

The one-on-one duels were highlighted by a deep reception by Kenneth Moore and an interception by Richard Marshall. Moore's catch saw him work past rookie cornerback Sherrod Martin up the left sideline, allowing him space to reach out and lunge for a sliding touchdown grab. Two plays later, Marshall picked off quarterback Matt Moore, tipping a pass that was intended for wide receiver Kevin McMahan and coming down with it before heading upfield ...

This Camp Report video I found disappointing. It is focused around an interview with UDFA Patrick Brown and his match-up with Julius Peppers. I say disappointing because it didn't show footage of the match-up in the question.
You can catch Darin Gantt's podcasts here. If I was to recap his Day 4 podcast: He's really high on Larry Beavers as KR with his elite speed. He also compares Mike Goodson with Kevin Faulk in the way he might be used. Finally, he thinks TE Gary Barnidge has the chance to be an all-around TE, a downfield threat who can also be a good blocker.
So will CB Chris Gamble get the opportunity to be a 'shutdown corner'?

Asked Thursday if he'd consider such a move in the future with Gamble, he hedged as is his custom.

"We've done both," Fox said. "Each game takes on its own personality. Sometimes matching up is an option; sometimes it's left and right. But you mix that up. Everybody in the league does that; we've done both."

Typical Fox answer. Definitely something to watch come the Eagles game.

Panthers Projected 2009 Depth Chart: TE

LittleKing — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:07:42 -0000

via www.panthers.com

The first responsibility of a TE under HC John Fox is run blocking ability. Since Fox became head coach in 2002, he has always carried at least three TEs and in three years there were four TEs credited to the roster (2002, 2003, 2006). However while I won't predict it, I can see a scenario this year where Fox decides to keep only two TE on the 53 man roster. The scenario would take into account the two FB currently on the roster, Brad Hoover and rookie Tony Fiammetta. If they keep both it could make one of the TE positions expendable.

Let's jump in and review who is currently on the roster.

Jeff King (4th year, Virgina Tech) 6'3" 260, Age 26: King was drafted in 2006 but didn't see much playing time until his second year. For having only two years of starting experience he fits nicely with the Panthers offensive game plan. While you can't put a stat on blocking, he was definitely a key cog in the Panthers successful running game last year. While he doesn't have the best hands in the league, he's more than adequate for the teams needs and is capable of finding an open spot when needed. He's a proven player that should continue to find a spot on the Panthers roster for several years.

100% chance of making the team and being the starter

Dante Rosario (3rd year, Oreg

on) 6'4" 250, Age 24: It appeared after the first game, 7 receptions for 96 yards, in 2008 that Rosario might have a breakout year. Yet his disappearing act the rest of the season has baffled everyone, when he went 11 receptions for 113 yards. However, much can be debated if the lack of involvement was by his own doing, the lack of involvement of the TE in the passing game, or Delhomme's inability to get them more involved. Then, in an odd decision, instead of having surgery immediately following the close of the season, he decided to wait until the first of May. While it was noted he should return in time for training camp, the timing is very questionable. With the possibility of carrying two FB this season, the decision may force the Panthers to only keep two TE as well. Because of this and the late surgery it give me pause in predicting his chances of being a Panthers.

85% chance of making the roster

Gary Barnidge (2nd year, Louisville) 6'5" 247, Age 23: Not since Wesley Walls have the Panthers had a consistent receiving threat but Barnidge has the hands to possibly become that threat. Between his college scouting reports and his impressive showing during last months OTA, Barnidge is setting himself up to possibly become a major factor on the Panther offense. However he will need to work on his blocking ability. He added weight this off-season which will help; to remain on the Panthers roster this is a must have skill for a TE. If his blocking catches up with his catching ability, he could become the starter in another year or two.

100% chance of making the roster

Kevin Brock (Rookie, Rutgers) 6'5" 255, Age 23: Brock worked hard to make the Rutgers team as a walk on player. He started as a WR but transitioned to a TE after adding 60 lbs. Since Rosario is out of commission Brock was able to get valuable field time and attention during OTA. But while he is no stranger to hard work and the face time on the field was important, his chances of making the roster is very slim. With three capable TE still on the roster from last year, breaking onto the roster would be difficult if not impossible. If the Panthers keep three active TE then even the need for a practice squad TE is slim. However, again if they only keep two, then Brock might get a PS spot.

5% chance of making roster if Rosario isn't ready, 15% chance of PS

Andrew Davie (Rookie, Arkansas) 6'6" 275, Age 26: Davie was picked off waives last week after he was released from the NY Jets, who had picked him up as a UDFA. He was known for his blocking in college, blocking for Darren McFaddenand Felix Jones. He's most likely a training camp body and not much more. Although similar to Brock his best chance will be if Rosario for some reason doesn't make the roster.

5% chance of making roster if Rosario isn't ready, 10% chance of PS

Overall the TE position is pretty set and while I did mention Rosario's surgery several times, from all indications he should return for training camp. If so there is very little doubt as to the position breakdown. The biggest question is if Rosario or Barnidge is the first backup. What's your take does Rosario keep his backup role or does Barnidge edge him out in training camp?

Poll

Who will win the backup TE position?

Dante Rosario

93 votes

Gary Barnidge

158 votes

251 votes | Poll has closed

Panther Paw Prints: Peppers Signing Edition

Jaxon — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:46:06 -0000

This edition of Paw Prints leads off with an NFL.com piece that digs into the Julius Peppers signing and potential long term deal that might be brewing.

NFL.com Blogs " Blog Archive Julius Peppers and franchise-tag economics "
Carolina GM Marty Hurney told the team’s website on Wednesday that the Panthers would not rule out putting the franchise tag on Peppers again in 2010 if need be, which, as we went over, would amount to a possible $40 million commitment over two years. When you look at it from the perspective of which way you want that $40 million sliced up, it would behoove the team from a cap standpoint to have it come from a long-term deal. And for Peppers, obviously, in a sport as violent as this, you’d rather have the $40 million guaranteed in the present rather than play for $17 million this season and risk getting hurt badly and never getting that second franchise-tag payday.

It's hard to fathom they would franchise him yet again but they seem pretty determined. Earlier in this post another interesting tidbit is a rumor the Panthers are close to signing DE Everette Brown. Usually the Panthers ink the lower rounds picks first before solidifying the big dollar ones. I imagine the lack of cap room is driving the priorities.

Inside the Panthers: Delhomme, Beason: Welcome back, Julius
"Not surprised at all about Julius," quarterback Jake Delhomme said by text message about the news that Peppers had signed a one-year tender with the team on Wednesday. "All of us will be elated he will be present on the first day of camp." Linebacker Jon Beason writes on his blog that he feels the same way: "We’re glad to have JP back and I think he’s happy, too. In some ways that’s the way I expected the procedure to unfold.

It seems us fans are not the only ones happy Pep has finally singed to play in 2009. The fact Delhomme and Beason are the first two players to respond should not be lost on you. These are the self-appointed leaders of this team and its a role that doesn't stop when the season is over. It's very safe to say the defense leader mantle has sucessfully transferred from Mike Minter to Jon Beason.

Team Reports | NFL at CBSSports.com
The Panthers are moving Sherrod Martin, a safety at Troy, to cornerback and so far the transition seems to be going well. Coaches have been impressed with Martin's athleticism. He's viewed as the team's potential nickel back. "I think I'm adapting pretty good," Martin said. "I can always get better. Right now I have to focus on the little things at cornerback. Right now it's fundamentals and techniques for me to help me on down the line. I have to be like a detective out there -- every little thing counts."

So is Martin slated for the nickel spot or not? The previous rumor had Marshall moving inside to the nickel in these situations which seems a little unorthodox. I imagine they would prefer him to earn the nickel spot rather than just being a special-teamer in '09. This is definitely one of the position battles to watch.

Team Reports | NFL at CBSSports.com
OFFSEASON STANDOUT TE Gary Barnidge was a standout during OTAs with backup TE Dante Rosario nursing a back injury. Jeff King is still the starting tight end in Carolina because of his versatility as a run-blocker and a receiver. However, the Panthers believe Barnidge is a guy who can help stretch the middle of the field.

Seems I heard this somewhere else but its worth mentioning given the need for another play-maker in the passing game. Last years rookie class is looking like one of the better ones in Panther history. All 9 players are not only still on the roster but might all receive playing time in 2009.

Scott Says ...: A Double Trouble prediction
Stewart also said Tuesday that he believed he and Williams could be even better this season. "I don’t see why we should lower our expectations from last year," Stewart said. "I think me and DeAngelo are capable of more."

Topping 30 TD's total seems unlikely given the schedule but we might be on the cusp on witnessing the most lethal Panther rushing attack in ~~team~~ NFL history. We have the o-line and RBs to get it done.

Carolina waives former Hillcrest star | TuscaloosaNews.com | The Tuscaloosa News | Tuscaloosa, AL
Markus Manson, a former Hillcrest High School running back, was waived by the Carolina Panthers on Wednesday. The 6-foot, 209-pound Manson signed as an undrafted free agent out of Valdosta (Ga.) State on May 2, according to a report on the NFL team's Web site.

If only I had waited a few days I wouldn't have spent so much time trying to dig up info on Manson for my RB Depth Chart Review. Oh well, good luck to you Manson. The team also waived CB Reggie Sullivan to make room for the Munnerlyn signing.

NFL Picks: 2009 Carolina Panthers Predictions
My Prediction: 1st NFC South (11-5) The schedule is definitely not in the favor of the Panthers this season, as the only team they face in 2009 that didn’t finish above .500 is Buffalo. I still think with a solid a defense and an outstanding rushing attack, the Panthers will repeat in the NFC South, but l think they slip up on the road in the 2nd round or even the NFC Championship game.

Okay, I was really liking this guy until the very last part. Anyone else think playing on the road in the playoffs might be a blessing in disguise?