Carolina Panthers Monday Morning Optimist- 12/26/11
by James Dator on Dec 26, 2011 6:00 AM EST
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Happy Boxing Day everyone! Wait... is that something only me, Oldham and Limey will really understand? Oh well, such is the life of a Brit/British colonist. You didn't think I'd forget about the MMO did you? I hope Santa was good to everyone and you had a wonderful Christmas. Now, back to the point at hand... Carolina Panther football!
While it sounds cliched, Christmas really did come early for fans this year. It's been a long time since we saw a completely dominating performance from our entire team in such a manor that they controlled every phase of the game for a full 60 minutes. As it stands I'm not sure how much we can really garner from Saturday's win, because we were playing a team in free-fall right now, however I do think we learnt a little something about the killer instinct of Rivera's Panthers in their ability to not only stick a wounded animal, but turn the knife. The 32 point victory was one of a largest in team history as we saw the Panthers run, throw and stuff their way to a huge win.
More after the jump
While Tom Brady and Drew Brees are getting heaped with effusive praise on their astounding 2011 seasons I feel Cam Newton is getting left out of the conversation. I get it, he's a rookie... but let's face it, ROY was wrapped up a long time ago for anyone with a real understanding of football, so now I feel it's appropriate to start comparing him to the NFL's elite.
- Tom Brady: 5,006 yards of total offense, 39 total touchdowns, 13 total turnovers
- Drew Brees: 4,872 yards of total offense, 38 total touchdowns, 12 total turnovers
- Cam Newton: 4,567 yards of total offense, 34 total touchdowns, 16 total turnovers
With the exception of Aaron Rodgers who wasn't compared simply because he's far and away the top of the heap I think it's fair to put Newton in the discussion with Brady and Brees in terms of legendary seasons in 2011. The NFL shouldn't be this easy, it just shouldn't... yet Newton has cut through this league fairly effortlessly despite having much less offensive talent that Brady or Brees.
We can point to large QBs like Roethlisberger or Freeman, we can point to fast QBs like Vick, but there is literally no QB in the modern NFL who could have made Newton's 50 yard TD run up the center of the field, beating the secondary and finally carrying two defenders for the final 5 yards in order to get the score. We are in uncharted waters here, and now as scary as it is to think about, we've only seen the tip of the iceberg. Opposing fans may look to write off the comparison, but Newton is the NFL's Magic Johnson, like it or not he's revolutionizing what we though possible about the position. Other team's fans will doubt, but it's not 'hate', it's jealousy and sadly for them I think they'll be green with envy for a long time.
So from CSR to Cam 'Ace Boogie' Newton: Congratulations on the NFL rookie passing record! Here's to 4,000 passing yards in 2011, and the next 15 years of success as a Carolina Panther!
Optimistic
Cam Newton, Extremely Optimistic Not much more to add other than the fact Cam absolutely dominated on Sunday. He was extremely efficient throwing the football, deadly on the ground and he torched the Bucs on multiple occasions. Just a fantastic game all around.
Double Trouble, Extremely Optimistic In a stat line that reads closer to something out of Madden than a real NFL game it was both DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart who shined for the Panthers in deadly tandem. 14 carries, 144 yards, 2 TDs (11 YPC), 3 receptions, 29 yards, 1 TD. Both players were on point and used to efficiency on Saturday.
Brandon LaFell, Extremely Optimistic This is a game that LaFell truly deserved after knocking on the door so many times in 2011. 3 receptions, 103 yards and a TD including a scintillating 91 yard TD reception from Cam Newton truly cemented his place as the big play receiver we need to compliment Cam.
Jordan Gross and Travelle Wharton, Extremely Optimistic Both get special mention here as they were absolutely amazing run blocking on the left side of the line. As good as Double Trouble were it was these two OL, along with LaFell who opened mammoth holes to run through.
Chris Gamble, Extremely Optimistic His side of the field was a black hole on Sunday, nothing could escape it's pull. Gamble is having an under-appreciated year, and I hope he gets the credit he deserves.
Defensive Tackles, Somewhat Optimistic They were solid against the run, but failed to get enough pressure on the QB. However, considering what we've seen for most of 2011 they played very well.
Pessimistic
There were some guys who played poorly, as there are every week. However, in the spirit of the Holidays and a huge win I'm giving everyone a pass this week. It seems far too pedantic to pick on anyone.
Future Outlook
As bright as the Sun. I would really like next week's game to get flexed not only because I think it will be a really fun game, but because I want the entire football world to get a chance to see Cam get things done.
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WOW!
I can’t say enough on how good i think the panthers will be next season, how does a young team with a rookie HC and QB with loads of injuries play as good as the Panthers have been this season (not to mention no off season practice which hurt us the most b/c of new off and def schemes and the rookie QB.
When we get back the heart and soul of the defense along with our speedster TD, with Ron Edwards as our space eating DT (also 3 rookie DT’ come back with a yr of experiance, and our defensive minded HC has more time to practice, we’ll be hard to beat and the panthers will probably be able to win of contend for the nfc south. Hopefully we can draft a CB in the 1st rnd, an OLB in the 2nd and a WR in the 3rd which will make the panthers even better.
Cam will have a yr of experience to get better and our running game will be as good as always, theres no telling what we could do.
Great article, i love reading your MMO every week!
It really has been a merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas to my fellow Panther brethren all the way from deep darkest South Africa. Excellent post as always James. Ah yes there was plenty to like about the Panthers ruthless display against the Bucs. Let’s recap shall we:
1. Cam Newton, frighteningly good. Rookie passing record, 20 TD’s, 14 rushing TD’s and 149 QBR for the game. For a rookie QB? Are you kidding me! I really hope this kid becomes an elite QB, while re defining the QB position. Becasue when he does become elite, he will be virtually unstoppable.
2. Double Trouble, the’re back and Chud has finally figured out to use his running backs effectively and consistently.
3. Defense. I think in a twisted way, our defensive woes early in the year due to major injuries have brought about a discovery of some rough diamonds. Neblett, Kearse, Shirley, Senn, Keaser, Anderson have proven themselves on many occasions that they belong and can play at a high level in NFL. And what excites me even more, is the fact that Bamf and Mc’D have discovered that we now have some defensive depth going forward. And these youngsters can be rotated with the starters when they return from injury.
That will definitely help our play-off cause next season, where we can rotate defensive players at DT, DE and LB throughout the 2012 season.
Like I always say, things are looking up.
Happy boxing day and I wish you my Panther brethren a Successful and Prosperous New Year.
by SimmerDownNow on Dec 26, 2011 7:03 AM EST via mobile reply actions
My only disappointment...
…was when they took Cam out of the game with over 10 minutes left in the 4th quarter. I wanted to see him keep piling up numbers, throw another long TD (this time to Steve Smith), and break 4,000 passing yards on the season. As it is, we’ll have to wait until the New Orleans game to see that last milestone surpassed.
But, great game all around. Tampa Bay clearly is the worst team in the division. And, after starting 4-2, I’m really surprised to see them wilt so completely. The Panthers are the team that had every reason to disappear with such a huge rash of injuries, a rookie QB, and an all new coaching staff installing completely new schemes. Instead, we’re on the verge of going 7-9 and if we could have closed out those games where we jumped out to such a huge lead, we’d have been competing for a playoff spot by knocking out Atlanta or Detroit.
So, Merry Christmas everyone. Especially the Panthers.
My two cents,
—Neil
P.S. James? Where’s all the Optimistic’s vs. Pessimistic’s…? ;-)
I liked that they took Newton out of the game. It's always good to get the backup some game time.
Although it’s a little counter productive when you don’t let Anderson throw the ball. I could hand it off.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
That was Rivera getting the feel of being an easy winner, and not piling on a beaten opponent.
Let’s hope he gets to use that experience many times in the future!
I agree. That was Rivera being classy
Because that was 48 points in only 3 quarters. Had we kept them in we would have scored over 60 :-S. that would have made a fun headline, but totally unnecessary and bullyish.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 9:38 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
But taking out your QB is not sticking the knife in and turning it.
That’s sticking the knife in and walking away to let them bleed out slowly. I thik they should have left him in just because this season is to get Newton all the experience they can get him. Every snap is 1 more snap he has to learn from. I don’t care if he only handed the ball off himself, that would have been more handing the ball off practice, and it would have still made the Bucs watch for him to run or pass it.
STICK THE KNIFE IN AND TURN IT!!!!!
Except DeAngelo might have likely broke another one
Cam is a decoy even if he’s standing still.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 11:18 AM EST up reply actions
Actually it's less like sticking a knife in and turning it...
And more like how Walt killed Gustavo Fring on Breaking Bad ;-)
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 11:37 AM EST up reply actions
Bad things tend to happen when you leave your starters in the game late during a blowout
Cam is the franchise. If anything would have happened to him, we would have wanted Coah Rivera’s head. Cam had already taken some big hits that had him grimacing after the play. Plus its good for DA to get a couple of game snaps to keep him ready and to keep his confidence up. It was his first snaps of the season.
by carolinapillpusher on Dec 27, 2011 9:14 AM EST up reply actions
Agreed. It would have been kind of "Saint-like"
So much to be done, and so few people willing to do it for me.
But it may not look good for NFL and lack of respect to other team like NE cheaters
by LovePanthers on Dec 26, 2011 10:03 AM EST up reply actions
My thoughts exactly
We don’t need to be a douchebag team like the Patriots that piles on points just to be hateful. We broke franchise win as far as spread goes so that was enough.
Classy is classy and we had a nice win
Double trouble are in uncharted waters.
A team can have ONE running back. That back can have a six or seven year career with almost all of the team’s carries and hundred-yard games.
The Panthers are going with TWO (perhaps a bit more, here and there) running backs. With that offensive scheme, the backs are splitting the carries. They pick up sixty to ninety yards per game as well as catches out of the backfield which are essentially very long hand-offs.
It’s conceivable that those backs will have ten-twelve year careers IF they learn to work together with their teammates and coaches.
I said this SEASON was going to be fun to watch.
The long term is going to be VERY entertaining, especially when the defense starts giving the offense more time on the field. Imagine what a dozen “three-and-outs” would have done for this season.
I suspect Williams and Stewart picked up on that very early on:
that they’ll help extend each other’s careers. Most RBs [cough]Johnson[cough] HAVE to be the man and anyone else taking carries away from them is a threat.
It’s why they get on so well I think.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
We've talked about how our Offense is developing a varied attack, but this is ridiculous.
The last 3 games or so, we’ve seen new, imaginative formations and trick plays, all of which have succeeded. A pass to our QB that almost scored, the Chudrooskie, completed passes from 2 WRs (who both have higher QB rankings than Newton!), and I can’t even remember the others.
I think Brandon LaFell is now playing every bit as good as Muhsin Mohammed ever did. His downfield blocking exceeds anything in the league, from a WR (Smitty is close, and they love to help each other with YAC.) Who now is heard to speak of trading Williams, or Stewart? That loose talk was just so much foolishness. They still show as much happiness for the other’s success as they did when they gained 1100+ apiece. Both their careers are being extended by platooning them, and this will serve us well nextyear and the next, when we’re in the playoffs, in cold weather. Next month, we’ll see how some of these pass-happy playoff teams, who have no running games, falter in adverse weather conditions. No problem for the Panthers, who boast the most balanced and diverse offense there is.
One other thing to be optimistic about: If you look back to last year, recall all the many ways in which we fell short of our opposition, with our offense. ALL of them have been reversed. After 15 games, we’re now +2 in takeaways, ahead of our opponents in all these categories:
First Downs
Scoring
Rushing yards
Passing Yards
Time of Possession
4th Down conversions
Touchdowns
http://www.panthers.com/team/statistics.html
Those stats don’t describe a team with a losing record. Apparently the losses we suffered early, in games we should have won (Arizona, Chicago, Minny, Detroit – and even GB and New Orleans, in which we led) have served to motivate the coaches and players to step it up.
Next year is ours.
by bigdavis on Dec 26, 2011 10:00 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
haha happy boxing day james and oldham and all the other brits/convicts :D
Has a franchise ever been so energised at 6-9? Hats off to the coaching staff, I predicted a 5-11 season and I would have been happy with that providing we’d been competitive. Instead, we have a shot at 7-9, have been really really competitive (so much so that some fans are disappointed at our current standing) and CAMMMM has been simply outstanding. Certain people had newton pegged as a bust, everybody thought it was a gamble but what a great job hurney, rivera and the scouting team have done. Love it
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Dec 26, 2011 9:11 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Happy Boxing day to you too. I'm just about to watch Rovers get torn apart by the Scousers.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
Yep, nice backs to the wall effort there.
I hope Steve Kean gets caught drink driving on his way home.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
lol
Venky’s better used to the idea of pedalling their chicken in league one. Oldham have you seen the youth league venky’s has set up in india. All the teams wear either the blackburn home or away kit. Hundreds of indian children running around in the football kits from a small northern english town!! It just makes me laugh
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Dec 26, 2011 1:03 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
They won't be here for that. They'll asset strip us and leave. Absolute scum.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
I have a feeling Rovers will find a way to stay up.
Too much quality in the squad. They do need a proper manager though, that’s been a given for weeks. I do hate it when new owners come in and do this to teams – it’s ruining the Prem. Well, that and City. Nice 0-0 for them today :)
by rassling on Dec 26, 2011 4:32 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
It's been a given for months. I wanted him sacked after the last game of the season.
It’s a mid-table squad, but we’re 4 or 5 (I haven’t cared to look at the table recently) adrift at Christmas. We’re fucked.
Money has ruined football – I can’t fault them for buying the title. Everyone else does it.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
I posted a fan shot of Peter Kings MMQB. He praises Newton as not only the rookie of the year but best rookie ever. Good quote from Jerry Richardson and he has us at #13 in his power 15. I guess Cam became the entertainer and icon after all….
Proud member of the Panthers Mafia!
Saving The Environment One Green Comment at a Time
'We got to learn to stick in the knife and turn it - Ron Rivera aka BAMF
NFLN had a debate about this as well
And while 2-1 thought he was the best rookie ever, all 3 agreed Cam was THE best rookie QB ever in the history of the league.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 9:34 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Why do you think Cam has... "much less offensive talent than Brady or Brees?"
Breez and Brady don’t have a pair of better RB’s or a pair if better TE’s. I guess Welker is statistically better than Smitty, but not by much. We’re also drawing up offensive plays better than anyone in the league. They’ve got better o-lines, but that alone is sort of splitting hairs.
What am I missing?
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 9:20 AM EST via mobile reply actions
You make an interesting point, ST. The Panthers don't have "much less offensive talent" than the Pats or Saints.
But, if you’d asked that question last year the answer would have been, “Hell yeah, they do.” The addition of Cam, Chud, Shockey, Olsen (in that order) has brought about a resurrection of sorts for the entire offense, Smitty being the best example.
Brees does have a loaded offense when you think about it — Ingram, Sproles, Pierre Thomas, Graham, Colston, Meachem, Henderson, Moore; along with an excellent line and Payton calling plays. Not a bad gig for a great QB.
Brady is definitely doing more with less — Welker and Gronk being the only real standouts. Brady makes everyone better, as does Cam.
So much to be done, and so few people willing to do it for me.
Brady has ALWAYS done more with less
With the exception of Moss. But he won 3 SBs without anyone notable on offense.
Breez is pretty loaded, though I do think a couple of those guys are a product of playing with Breez.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 11:42 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Brady has a pair of better TEs definitely. Graham is better than either Olsen or Shockey too.
We have the best RBs. WR wise it’s debatable with the Patriots and of course the Saints have a better WR corps.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
Hmm I guess you never heard the name of
Aaron H or Gronk? Both are better than Greg O and Jeremy S.
by adam carter on Dec 26, 2011 10:22 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
I agree
we have a ton of offensive firepower
"The way y'all are lollygaggin around here with them picks and them shovels, you'd think it was 120 degrees...can't be more than 114."
by SouthernPanther on Dec 26, 2011 12:51 PM EST up reply actions
Here’s pretty much how I look at it:
As an entire group of WRs: Patriots> Saints> Panthers
As an entire group of TEs: Patriots> Saints> Panthers
As an offensive line: Saints> Patriots> Panthers (mostly because of injuries to us)
As an entire group of RBs: Panthers> Saints> Patriots
If we score this on a rudimentary 1,2,3 scare it would be: Pats- 10, Saints- 9, Panthers- 6
Some will want to argue the TE spot, but it’s hard to deny:
- Gronk/Hernandez: 1,991 yards, 21 TDs, 13.2 YPC
- Graham: 1,171 yards, 9 TD, 13.5 YPC
- Olson/Shockey: 977 yards, 9 TD, 12.5 YPC
by James Dator on Dec 26, 2011 12:54 PM EST up reply actions
I don't think that's fair
That’s like saying Smith was not as talented last year because of his numbers. Smitty and our TE’s have a rookie throwing to them, in an offense that implements a heavy dose of rushing, QB rushing, option and screen passing. NO and NE have a “heavily” pass first offense with very good veteran QBs.
My point being that Brady, Breez and their offensive systems make those receivers and TE’s productive, but they’re are not necessarily more talented with all things equal… IMO.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 3:03 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
experience
where you can finish drives and always be ahead
Anybody else really pumped about Shockey?
Preseason, I thought signing Olsen was a nail in Shockey’s coffin. And we all talked primarily about how great a season Olsen (not Shockey) would have. But Olsen has sort of been an after thought since Shockey has been so fun to watch… he’s energizing (like a white, bigger Smitty), shifty in the redzone, great for mentoring young players, oh and he saved a dude’s life.
I know he’s getting too old to be a long term solution. But I hope he doesn’t get let go too quickly, as he has done on every other stop.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 9:32 AM EST via mobile reply actions
I love Shockey (no homo). He's got an infectious fire about him, along with a "having fun" attitude. I hope we keep him.
He’ll want to keep his consecutive games with a catch streak going, and I’ve noticed we’ve sort of made sure that happened in a couple of games. If he’ll take a friendly contract to stay, then lock him up for a couple of years.
So much to be done, and so few people willing to do it for me.
I always hated him in NY and NO.
Love him on our side of the ball though… Which is also how most people would feel about Smitty.
AND he sort of reminds me of a un-depressed Kurt Cobain :-S
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 11:46 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
I saw the Texan Fans complaining about him the other day.
He really is one of those guys that when he is on your team you love him, but when he isn’t he is easy to hate.
why does everyone always put 'no homo'?
Are we really that homophobic that we have to clarify we’re not making a gay remark? I also think shockey will stay, he has to like what’s going on here.
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Dec 26, 2011 1:12 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
There's your problem.
Following something ‘Lil Wayne’ started.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
by OldhamA on Dec 26, 2011 1:23 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
LOL
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Dec 26, 2011 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
Aaaand rec'd.
"If ya ain't first, you're last."
- Ricky Bobby's Dad
"There is no evidence that the tongue is connected to the brain."
-Frank Tyger
by KaiserBromley on Dec 26, 2011 2:43 PM EST up reply actions
"Most" (not all) football fans lean far right conservative.
I saw a poll on this once. So the answer is most likely… “Yes”.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
I think it's supposed to be a joke.
But to answer that question, sadly, many many Americans are that homophobic.
I don't always fail, but when I do...
I do it awesomely.
by BusyBeingAwesome on Dec 27, 2011 10:18 AM EST up reply actions
We need to keep him for another year or two.
by LovePanthers on Dec 26, 2011 10:08 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
No "faint praise" this week, James. I'm happy to see you so happy.
I love the “elite QB stats” you listed. There has been an understandable love-fest around the league for Rodgers, Brees, and Brady, and rightfully so – but it’s high time others make note of what you’ve tallied: that there are FOUR elite QBs (and Philip Rivers is not one of them.)
About the DTs, there was pretty good pass pressure applied from those guys: Neblett got 1 sack, and Kearse and Shirley shared another. This is vast improvement from what we saw early in the season.
This is one game where the offensive onslaught totally overshadowed the good work the defense put up. Namely our run defense has morphed lately from abysmal to not bad. Remember a month or so ago, when there was so much talk about how the great and powerful LaGarrette Blount was going to gash us unmercifully? I’d note that he since has played in 2 games against us, and totaled 30 yds rushing in them.
Earlier we were putting up enough points to win a lot of games, indeed having the lead late in a lot of them – but the defense couldn’t get off the field, and wound up giving away those leads. But a large part of the reason we’ve won 4 of the last 5 is that our run defense has stepped up (due, I claim, to Neblett, Kearse, and Shirley replacing Fua and McClain.) We were rightfully being laughed at as a porous run defense after our first 10 games, but in the last 5, here’s a recap of the Rushing Yards Allowed: 105 (Indy), 75 (TB). 86 (Atl), 150 (Hou(, and 59 (TB) It can be said that we had leads, and teams had to pass, going away from their rushing games, but that doesn’t explain how we handled Michael Turner and Blount twice, 2 feared runners. Kudos to the DL coaches for finding the right guys, and the right rotational combinations.
Nobody wants to face out team next year. Nobody.
If Drew Brees were to go down next year, unexpectedly, as Peyton Manning did this year, we’d top the Saints easily for the Division crown. If he doesn’t, then we’ll just win it the hard way.
Cowboys-Giants has already been flexed for next week
Since it is the only game that will be a play-in regardless of anything else that may happen earlier in the day. We could still get flexed to a 4:15, though, depending on what happens tonight.
If we can beat NO Pain_killers next week like this, It will be great.
Panthers 49 – NO Saints 17 for Happy New year.
I was hoping to see Smith in the "Optimisitc" list.
It was awesome to see him make sure LaFell remained untouched on that 91 yard strike, taking out at least two Tamp Bay defenders. He also had that nice end around play. His overall receiving numbers were pedestrian, but his veteran presence was all over the field that day. How different would this season have been if he didn’t decide to stay?
Newton for '11 ROY! (Update: Etch it in stone)
Walker for '11 ROY!
Biyombo for DPOY!
James, when you review the game film you will discover you had one glaring oversight.
Ryan Kalil had a MONSTER game. He was pulling and blocking better than any center I’ve ever seen. Check it out and see if you shouldn’t add him as Extremely Optimistic.
"I may be old but...eh, I forget the rest!"
by GooseCreek on Dec 26, 2011 10:34 AM EST reply actions 3 recs
Chud is getting better at using Kalil too!!!
In the last few games, Chud has not only used the RB’s and other offensive weapons a lot better, he has also used Kalil much better.
Kalil is excellent at pulling out and running in front of the back as a Lead blocker, he is pretty fast from what I have seen.
I guess, this whole year has been a learning not just for Cam, but for Chud and Rivera as well.
We have literally spent a season learning about the team and it’s strengths and weaknesses. Hopefully everything will fall into place in the next couple of years and we can go for the Super Bowl.
So glad we extended that man.
Now we trade up for his bro ;)
I'd say he is up there with Nick Mangold as the best in the business
"The way y'all are lollygaggin around here with them picks and them shovels, you'd think it was 120 degrees...can't be more than 114."
by SouthernPanther on Dec 26, 2011 12:50 PM EST up reply actions
Kalil is the best if not one of the best centers in the NFL.
It’s pretty awesome that he plays for the Panthers, and helps improve Double Trouble.
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Dec 26, 2011 12:34 PM EST up reply actions
Now if we can just draft an equally competent OT
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 26, 2011 12:36 PM EST up reply actions
Our O-line (when injury free) is pretty solid. Not elite, but solid.
I’d give Kalil an A and the rest of the offensive line as a unit this year a B-.
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Dec 26, 2011 1:38 PM EST up reply actions
No A- for Wharton?
When has he disappointed?
He’s very under-appreciated for what he does.
I saw an article a couple of weeks ago that said...
That Wharton was statistically one of the worst guards in the league. It might have been Pro Football Focus, or one of the other stats websites.
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Dec 26, 2011 4:31 PM EST up reply actions
I agree. And therefore we might need to wait a year to draft another O-line stud
Too many needs on defense.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
Anybody paid close attention to Byron Bell?
My gut says he’s been playing great for a rookie… But I haven’t paid close attention to him.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
Getting better as the season progresses.
He got called for a Hold yesterday, but re-examination shows it was an iffy call. As so often happens on an OH call, if the guy he’s blocking falls down, and the OT goes down, too, there’s often a flag. Nothing blatant, by any means.
Loved this game.
Everything about it felt so right.
And i actually do celebrate Boxing Day Toronto born ha
Follow me on
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@boblaq
Game
We did what we should have done in this game. TB is probably worst def. in nfl right now. But we did play a complete game. I hope Atl. wins tonight so NO has something to play for next week. That would be a great way to end season and beat NO and atl. win division. I’am not a Atl. homer but I can’t stand NO. Arrogant, cheap shot artists. I think we have a very good chance to beat them. That would be a great start to next season.
I think Rivera should get coach of the year. Look at what this coaching staff has had to go through this year. it it truly remarkable. Massive injuries, no offseason, rookie qb, constant personnel changes on def. I have never been so optimistic about our team as I’am now.
Go Panthers
Coach of the year
…would have to go to Harbaugh for the job he’s done in San Fran. From a train wreck (I exaggerate) to second in the conference is pretty impressive, I must admit. Rivera can get it next year for leading the Panthers to a division title, beating who I hope to once again call the Aints.
by disgruntled1 on Dec 26, 2011 6:59 PM EST via Android app up reply actions
People are actually arguing with Peter King that red rocket deserves ROY over Cam with the Bengals being in the playoffs. He has 3 less INT’s then Cam but ALSO 800 yards less passing 700 yards less running and 13 less TD’s rushing. Andy has 21 touchdowns to Cam’s 34/. ROY shouldn’t even be close
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Saving The Environment One Green Comment at a Time
'We got to learn to stick in the knife and turn it - Ron Rivera aka BAMF
+1
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Dec 26, 2011 12:35 PM EST up reply actions
They can argue it, but...
who cares? It’s not even close. Cam by a landslide.
As King said, “best rookie ever.”
“Cam Newton is on his way to the best rookie season ever. By any player.
Many of us were skeptical of Cam Newton’s ability to transition to the pro game so quickly, and without a full offseason program. But he’s done a fabulous job in all ways of adjusting to the NFL. His confidence is off the charts for a young player. His hatred of losing, as I’ve written about before, is surprising for such a young player; after a loss, he’s nearly inconsolable, even by respected opponents. He’s more accurate in a complicated offense than anyone had a right to expect. And though he clearly wants to establish himself as a strong pocket passer with awareness to see the whole field, he knows when to take off too. And the results have been strong since the Panthers, on Thanksgiving Day, stood 2-8. Carolina is 4-1 since then (thanks, Bucs), and here are Newton’s numbers: eight touchdown passes, two picks, five rushing touchdowns, 60 percent passing.
He already owns the rookie record for passing yards (3,893), and, obviously, will be the first rookie to pass for 4,000 with 107 yards against the Saints next week. Newton passed Peyton Manning’s record with his 478th throw Saturday; Manning threw 575 passes as a rookie in 1998. Newton’s rushed for more touchdowns, 14, than any quarterback in any season ever. The NFL mark for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback is 43, by Steve Young … and Newton’s a third of the way there already.
Listen to these strong words from owner Jerry Richardson to me the other day: "As far as I’m concerned, he’ll be the last quarterback we ever draft high in my lifetime. He is a very unusual young man, and I say that in a highly complimentary way. He does not complain. Ever. He’s never in the trainers room. You watch him get hit out there and you think, ‘He got to be hurting,’ and then you see he’s never with the trainers. The way he has adapted to our team and to the NFL has been tremendous. We couldn’t be happier.’’
GM Marty Hurney said before the draft that in order to compete in a quarterback-strong division, the Panthers had to take a quarterback and develop him quickly. He could never have imagined this. Who could? The most amazing thing is Newton having seven weeks of pro coaching before the real games began, and having a season like this one. Imagine when he has an offseason to work on the things he needs to improve. Which, from watching him, is not much."
Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/peter_king/12/25/week.16/index.html#ixzz1hewZTbRY
My mom and her husband....
are visiting my wife and I here in Texas. When I read this post, I immediately asked my mom’s husband, who is was born in South Africa and lived for a time in Australia, what Boxing Day was all about. Quite Interesting history there. I guess you learn something new every day.
It's the day after Christmas Day. Doesn't everyone celebrate it?
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
No Boxing day in America
Proud member of the Panthers Mafia!
Saving The Environment One Green Comment at a Time
'We got to learn to stick in the knife and turn it - Ron Rivera aka BAMF
by MMA_PITBULL on Dec 26, 2011 11:53 AM EST up reply actions
We'd have to give up one of the other holidays.
It’s more or less one every 6 weeks. If we added that one, and took one away, we’d have 4 in 6 weeks. (Veteran’s/Armistice Day on Nov 11, Thanksgiving at the end of November, and then a double on the 25 & 26th of December)
Although since many companies are observing the Christmas Holiday today, I think technically, we should get a pass this year.
by panthersnbraves on Dec 26, 2011 6:41 PM EST up reply actions
Steve Smith - somewhat optimistic
while he didn’t have the gaudy numbers that lots of others did, his blocking on LaFell’s TD showed his fire.
by panthersnbraves on Dec 26, 2011 11:27 AM EST reply actions
Even when Smith isn't putting up numbers
he is making teams double up on him, which opens up another player a little more. Not only that, He is still blocking like you said.
STICK THE KNIFE IN AND TURN IT!!!!!
Smitty hasn't been needed much lately
Early on him and Cam were the only ones making plays, so we had to feed him often. That’s not the case now… Hence 5 different players not named Smitty scoring TD’s.
This is the problem I have with putting too much emphasis on numbers. You just simply can’t get the ball enough to Olsen, Shockey, DWill, JStew and Smitty for them to all have great stats.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
And yes, big props for Smitty working hard to make plays (blocking) even when he's NOT getting the ball
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
There are too many studs on our Offense, to feed them all every game.
He’ll come up big in New Orleans.
I think teams have been doubling Smitty up lately.
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Dec 26, 2011 4:32 PM EST up reply actions
And for the first time since 2003...
We have plenty of other weapons to go to when our #1 WR is doubled
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
Steve Drummond
The Panthers offense averaged 258.4 yards per game last season. Through 15 games in 2011 the offense is averaging 395.7 yards.
Proud member of the Panthers Mafia!
Saving The Environment One Green Comment at a Time
'We got to learn to stick in the knife and turn it - Ron Rivera aka BAMF
I was joking with some people during the game
“I think we scored as many touchdowns this game as we did all of least season.
"The way y'all are lollygaggin around here with them picks and them shovels, you'd think it was 120 degrees...can't be more than 114."
by SouthernPanther on Dec 26, 2011 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
Cam-mania will be off the charts next yer.
I loved how he seemed to take it up a notch when the Bucs started getting a little dirty. The TD run was pretty much a “FU” to them for hurting his nose. That bodes very well for the future. Hell, even my aunt mentioned Cam when I called her on Christmas. The only thing she had ever said to me before about the Panthers before was asking if I liked my seats when I was going to the games. If she can even recognize how great he is then the whole country does (racists and subpar intellect withstanding of course).
by TXPanther on Dec 26, 2011 11:43 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Cam has taken over. He is by far our brightest star in quite a awhile.
Proud member of the Panthers Mafia!
Saving The Environment One Green Comment at a Time
'We got to learn to stick in the knife and turn it - Ron Rivera aka BAMF
by MMA_PITBULL on Dec 26, 2011 11:53 AM EST up reply actions
IMO the early injuries will help us be more aggressive in the draft
We can trade back in the first rd. But then we can use our late rd picks to get back in the 3rd or maybe even the 2nd. Since we have a bunch of capable back-ups, we can use the late rd pick to move up and get more quality players instead of using those picks on back-ups who probably won’t make the team. Based on how I feel now I’m thinking we go 11-5…and thats being conservative.
by la_flare on Dec 26, 2011 12:11 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Intersting that you talk of moving down.
Almost always, it’s about moving up, but in this case, I I think the Panthers have played themselves out of getting Kalil#2, and you might just have a case to move down, and get more depth, and maybe some cap help.
by panthersnbraves on Dec 26, 2011 6:44 PM EST up reply actions
My one disagreemnet with your post James...
I would say Cam is more like MJ, than Johnson. I’ve always compared Brady and Manning to Johnson and Byrd.
Magic revolutionized the PG position though cause of his size and ability.
Jordan was a freak athlete, and was just really good. I think the magic comparison is more applicable in this situation.
"The way y'all are lollygaggin around here with them picks and them shovels, you'd think it was 120 degrees...can't be more than 114."
by SouthernPanther on Dec 26, 2011 12:48 PM EST up reply actions
I've gotta disagree.
While the Manning-Brady rivalry is similar to the Johnson-Bird one, that’s where the similarities end.
"If ya ain't first, you're last."
- Ricky Bobby's Dad
"There is no evidence that the tongue is connected to the brain."
-Frank Tyger
by KaiserBromley on Dec 26, 2011 2:56 PM EST up reply actions
I had a chance to go to this game, but I decided not to so I would be back in Gboro in time for church with my family...
I was so pissed off/extraordinarily excited the entire game!!! Everytime we scored my friend would text me, “you should have come.” It was one of the most fun panthers game I have ever watched as we just absolutely beat down the Tampa Bay Bucs. I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and has a Happy New Year!
"The way y'all are lollygaggin around here with them picks and them shovels, you'd think it was 120 degrees...can't be more than 114."
by SouthernPanther on Dec 26, 2011 12:46 PM EST reply actions
One thing remains for Cam
and I hope he does it this year……Win a game in which he has a turnover
I was telling my dad at the end of the game.
That I wish Cam would just throw one right to the other team just so we could win one when he has an interception but I guess that will come Sunday against the Saints.
When someone tells you that you are one in a million, what they are really saying is that there are about 1400 of you in China.
Personally, I thought this game was as complete a game as we have seen the Panthers play in a long time.
Cam and the offense were rolling, with Double Trouble gashing and bludgeoning the Bucs until the beginning of the 4th quarter. Defensively, there were plenty times where the defense bent but didn’t break, which is fine. However solid our DT’s were in rush defense, they were very capricious in pass rushing. But on the whole, our defense and the turnovers they created were instrumental in our victory.
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Dec 26, 2011 1:57 PM EST reply actions
Compare
Cam Newton is the next Warren Moon maybe better.
Disagree. Cam Newton is the first Cam Newton.
The beginning of a new history is being made here, this year, and we’re in on the ground floor of watching it.
I can totally see a wave of future teams playing cop-cat to what we are doing
That is… Drafting guys like RG3 and designing offenses that mix up the option with pocket passing. It’s a completely logical progression. We’ve gone from a running and defense league, to a heavy passing league. But once everyone is savvy to this, what’s next? I think we’re witnessing the early evolution of the future.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
The problem with that is other teams don't have Newton.
RG3 couldn’t take the hits Newton has taken this season, he’d snap in half.
There’s times when Newton has gotten up grimacing this year – only to get back in the huddle and call the next play. He must outweigh RG3 by 30lbs. Same with Tebow – he’s built to take hits.
So sure it could be a wrinkle in the offence – having your QB run the option every now and again, but it’s not going to be a staple with a guy like RG3. He’d simply end up like Vick, constantly bange dup.
As bigdavis said. What we’re doing with Newton is pretty much unique because 6’5" 250lb QBs than can throw the ball and run a 4.6 40 yard dash don’t exactly grow on trees.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
by OldhamA on Dec 26, 2011 6:37 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
After the Panthers game was over, I watched part of the Eagles game
And I was so disappointed in how poorly the Michael Vick experience was at running the Panthers’ offense. I know that part of that has to do with the opponents’ LB corps, but Vick is no longer the prototype.
by panthersnbraves on Dec 26, 2011 6:56 PM EST up reply actions
They ARE the trees.
Sturdy like an oak, slippery as an elm.
Other teams also don't have a Drew Breez or Tom Brady
Doesn’t stop offensive coordinators from asking rookies to throw 40 passes a game.
I’m not saying they’ll be as effective as Cam, and clearly different QB’s will have different strengths that you’d lean towards. I’m just saying don’t be surprised if teams start copying some of what we’re doing… Look at Denver.
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
Check out his Combine vid.
He’s a strange athlete to watch. Doesn’t look quick, but he is.
"Nah, you look like Elijah Wood." - danmerqury
Its because of his size and running style, kind of like Usain Bolt and Randy Moss
Usain Bolt is so tall that it makes it appear that he’s not going as fast as he actually is. Also his stride is tremendous enough that he’s doing in one step what the average man needs 1.5 steps to do. Moss was such a tall effortless runner, that defenders wouldn’t think he was moving that fast. Of course in turn he would blow them away.
by carolinapillpusher on Dec 27, 2011 9:01 AM EST up reply actions
Him dragging the DB into the endzone is hilarious
It’s like watching a little kid trying to tackle a full grown adult.
It's my favorite part of the run.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
the other guys look like they pull up like…im not about to be embarrassed. Asking a DB to bring down Cam at full speed is a pretty big task.
Proud member of the Panthers Mafia!
Saving The Environment One Green Comment at a Time
'We got to learn to stick in the knife and turn it - Ron Rivera aka BAMF
by MMA_PITBULL on Dec 27, 2011 11:37 AM EST up reply actions
Notice how so many of the Bucs (esp. 20, Ronde barber) quit on the play.
They didn’t want ANY part of that.
He got punked, but at least 31 tried.
Actually they quit a couple weeks ago
This was not a Buc’s team that came to play
This is how I roll, animal print pants out control.
by southtunnel on Dec 27, 2011 9:55 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I love how he drags the DB with him.
“I’m going to the end zone son…you can come with me if you want.”
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
The most carries Warren Moon ever had in a single season was 70, and for a paltry 3.8 YPC
Aaron Rodgers is far closer to Warren Moon than Cam, as neither are true running threats, but they were both great at using their mobility to escape pressure.
Thus far Cam has 120 carries at 5.6 YPC… we’re in uncharted waters for a 4,000 yard passing QB
Throws like Peyton runs like Payton
Proud member of the Panthers Mafia!
Saving The Environment One Green Comment at a Time
'We got to learn to stick in the knife and turn it - Ron Rivera aka BAMF
by MMA_PITBULL on Dec 27, 2011 11:38 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
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