2010 Carolina Panthers Position Review- Safety

by James Dator on Jun 2, 2011 1:50 PM EDT in Panther Player & Position Reviews

The safety position was definitely in flux during the 2010 season. When the Panthers made the unpopular decision to trade fan favorite (and CSR poster) Chris Harris to the Chicago Bears for Jamar Williams during the preseason it was a hard pill to swallow, one made even harder by Williams who has yet to make an impact for Carolina at linebacker. In hindsight the move gave us two clear indications on what Marty Hurney wanted to do with his roster, and highlights the youth movement that was forced on the Panthers last season.

The organization really like the two players they have at the safety positions. Both Sherrod Martin and Charles Godfrey bring different things to the table, but both excel at playing the ball in the air, even if they aren't the most accomplished tacklers we could have in the secondary.

Today we'll look at Martin and Godfrey... after the jump

Sherrod Martin, FS

2010 Statistics: 85 tackles, 5 PDef, 1 INT, 2 FF

I feel Martin deserves a good amount of praise for adapting to being the starting FS in just his second NFL season, but that doesn't mean he was the perfect player. He's still learning to be more instinctive, especially on passing downs, but what may surprise you is just how good Sherrod Martin was in run support.

It's easy to throw the baby out with the bath water when it comes to run stopping in the secondary, but according to Football Outsiders advanced tracking Martin was 13th in the NFL among FS with a 54% stop rate on run plays involving him . Martin was also 16th in the NFL among all FS with a 44% stop rate on all plays. However, the basic tenets of playing FS mean that he needs to play the ball better in the air and his 34% stop, 37th in the league performance just isn't good enough in this area.

Ultimately, the fact Martin was middle of the NFL in just his second season should resonate with fans when it comes to his future at the position, and as such I feel he deserves an 'above average' grade.

Letter grade: B

Charles Godfrey, SS

2010 Statistics: 84 tackles, 8 PDef, 5 INT, 1 FF

Getting 5 INTs at the safety position is an impressive total. It's the kind of number that gets you named to a Pro Bowl, and that's just what happened to Charles Godfrey in 2010. However, when you break down the numbers he was far from the most successful safety on his team, let alone the NFL.

Again relying on Football Outsiders' advanced tracking we see a player who struggled in both phases of the game on a regular basis. His overall stop rate was 38% which equates to 28th in the NFL at SS, furthermore he struggled against both the pass (19th in the league) and the run (53rd in the league). It's that second number, against the run, which shows just how much of a liability Charles Godfrey is on running downs. A stop rate of just 35% is abysmal for the safety position relied on to bring down runners.

In the end the interceptions were impressive, but really, if you spend any amount of time really watching Carolina Panthers football in 2010 you'll know he was definitely not a Pro Bowl caliber SS. Many of those interceptions were 'right place, right time' plays, rather than really anticipating the ball in the air. Sure, it's important to be opportunistic, but his reward did not match his play in this case.

Letter grade: D

Overall Analysis

The answer is staring the organization in the face, and I hope it's a move Coach McDermott makes... swap the two players. Sure, Sherrod Martin is a smaller player, but he plays far bigger on running downs that Godfrey. Conversely, Godfrey does have a knack for being opportunistic in the passing game, so why not move him to FS where he can use those skills more readily?

The safety position was yet another facet to the Panthers' team what was mismanaged in 2010. Surely coaches could have seen Godfrey's issues against the run, Lord knows we did at home. If this move is made the Panthers have a reliable safety tandem for a long time, but they have to switch their roles to get the most out of both players.

Overall Grade: C

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Comments

Both are too young to truely grade

Good analysis though. I do feel that Godfrey needs to improve his game, though I think that most of the failure comes from having such hodge podge of an defensive front.

Don't give up, don't ever give up ~ Jim Valvano

by AParker on Jun 2, 2011 1:56 PM EDT reply actions

If you play, you should get graded

“too young to truely grade” applies to rating draft picks only after they have a body of work to evaluate.

How a guy plays during the season, especially if the starter(s), deserves a grade. And it’s not like either was a rookie.

by GKB on Jun 3, 2011 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions

I'm also curious as to where Jordan Pugh is going to play in this equation...

He should be able to compete with Godfrey and Martin in camp (whenever that may be), and he could move to FS, allowing Martin to slide to SS and put Godfrey at either Dick’s CB spot or on the bench.

But at the same time, Pugh played CB in college as well as S, so he could potentially replace Dick if he walks when there is a CBA in place. It could explain why the Panthers waited until the 4th round to take Hogan.

There are certainly options available for Opie to work with, and he should (hopefully) realize that Godfrey at SS is not a good idea, especially when the other team decides to run the ball.

One cries because one is sad. For example: I cry because others are stupid, and it makes me sad.

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by BW Smith on Jun 2, 2011 2:03 PM EDT reply actions

I didn't mention Pugh only because of how few plays he was in for...

But, you make a great point BW.

Looking at the same Football Outsiders numbers when Pugh was at FS he had a 61% stop rate overall, 100% against the pass and 33% against the run. However, he only had 12 measurable plays which makes it tough to evaluate.

That being said, a 100% stop rate on 6 passing plays shows his abilities as a CB shining at FS

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by James Dator on Jun 2, 2011 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions

I hope we get a chance to see what he can do.

He looked pretty good in the limited action he got…hopefully Rivera and co. see something in him to give him an opportunity to compete.

One cries because one is sad. For example: I cry because others are stupid, and it makes me sad.

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by BW Smith on Jun 2, 2011 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions

Plain forgot about Pugh.

I asked James if he thinks safety is a need, but I didn’t think about the possibility of Pugh competing with Godfrey. I think if we are at all handicapped at the safety position, its against the run. I know Pugh is another C/S tweener, so maybe that is why I pretty much forgot about the guy (as a possible starter).

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions

Godfrey is a capable tackler, IMO.

Too often he tries to go for the knockout instead of wrapping up. When he decides to form tackle and wrap up he is as good a tackler as any safety…he just rarely chooses to do so.

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 2:04 PM EDT reply actions

To me, that makes it even worse.

I’d rather him just flat out suck at tackling while giving his all than to have all the ability in the world, only to forget fundamentals while trying to get on Sportscenter with a de-cleater that usually ends up costing the team points and making him look stupid.

One cries because one is sad. For example: I cry because others are stupid, and it makes me sad.

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by BW Smith on Jun 2, 2011 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions

I'm sure he got his ass chewed a lot.

I recall several times looking for him on the sideline to see if Gillenhamer was blasting his ass.

He needs to fix that. I’d be shocked if we don’t bring someone in to compete with him, if nothing else just for 1st down…a Roy Williams type.

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions

If there is some way the Panthers can get Eric Weddle here I will dance a jig, film it and post it to this blog.

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by James Dator on Jun 2, 2011 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions

Noted.

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions

Witness to notation.

I will hold you accountable James. Just so you know.

And, might I suggest that you do it dressed like Crocodile Dundee, you know…for presentation purposes.

One cries because one is sad. For example: I cry because others are stupid, and it makes me sad.

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by BW Smith on Jun 2, 2011 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions 6 recs

lol and rec'd

Rules and Regulations of the Game: 89, Bottom Line

by John Chilton on Jun 2, 2011 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions

He's very good coming up on shorter passes and stopping the receiver after the catch.

If he hits you you ain’t going forward. I like the idea of switching the two, especially given these stats show Martin wasn’t as bad against the run as I had thought. Martin got most of his INT’s at SS anyways, now we should have two ballhawks back there.

Yes I'm a dude.

by Flowing Willow on Jun 2, 2011 7:54 PM EDT up reply actions

Rivera talked about getting back to tackling in his first presser

maybe he had Godfrey in mind when he said that. I’m sure he’ll call him out on it if he starts blowing tackles this year.

Rules and Regulations of the Game: 89, Bottom Line

by John Chilton on Jun 2, 2011 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions

James

Do you see either safety position as a position of need in FA? I know we’d all BoL if we could grab Weddle, or someone like that, but realistically, do you see us 1.) going after anyone, and 2.) being able to sign anyone who could threaten Godfrey?

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 2:29 PM EDT reply actions

I'm sure Rivera would love to bring in Eric Weddle

Problem is, if he hits free agency he’s immediately the second most valuable DB after Asomugha. I’d love it, but I think it’s a pip dream.

I think we could conceivably bring in a larger, stronger SS who McDermott can use to blitz with… but with the FA rules being so up in the air I’m not sure who that would be.

Right now, in answer to your questions I’m leaning:
1) No
2) Yes… we could, but I don’t think we will.

I really think save the glaring positions of need the organization will roll with what they have and give a season for Rivera and McDermott to evaluate. DT and CB are the exceptions because they need talent immediately.

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by James Dator on Jun 2, 2011 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions

I agree with your assessment.

I was able to see a lot of Chargers’ games the last couple seasons, and their other safety, Gregory is kind of a Weddle light. Don’t think he’s an UFA unless the new CBA makes him one, but he caught my eye as being a tough SOB.

In looking at the available players, safety is actually one of the deeper FA positions….http://eye-on-football.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/22475988/28816202

Quintin Mikell, Eagles (hmm?)
Darren Sharper, Saints (No)
Gerald Sensabaugh, Cowboys (I like this guy)
Bernard Pollard, Texans (I like this guy)
Lawyer Milloy, Seahawks (1 year plug, 4th LB at this point)
Brodney Pool, Jets (Decent option)
Roy Williams, Bengals (1st down only, but still a liability against the pass)
Gibril Wilson, Bengals (Meh)
C.C. Brown, Lions (No one from the Lions’ secondary, please)
Derrick Martin, Packers (Who?)
Eugene Wilson, Texans (Meh, maybe worth a look)
Aaron Francisco, Colts (uhhh, say what now?)
Ken Hamlin, Colts (No thanks)
Sean Considine, Jaguars (Meh, but fits the McD mold)
Jon McGraw, Chiefs (Special teamer)
Pierson Prioleau, Saints (Meh, okay)
Deon Grant, Giants (Hell no!)

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions

Gerald Sensabaugh?

While he is solid against the run, he sucks vs the pass. You forgot Roman H, forgot rather he’s a ufa or a rfa.

by adam carter on Jun 2, 2011 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions

Well honestly, I wouldn't mind adding a safety who is good against the run for 1st down.

’Cause until Godfrey decides to wrap up he is a liability on run downs.

I like Roman Harper, but I don’t think the Saints will let him go.

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions

I really want us to bring in DeAndre McDaniel from Clemson.

Dude has a nose for the ball and is a solid tackler. He could definitely push Godfrey for playing time even this year I believe.

Yes I'm a dude.

by Flowing Willow on Jun 2, 2011 7:57 PM EDT up reply actions

I’ve never really been a Godfry fan. Guy always seems out of position on plays, and gets burnt in pass coverage rather easily. I wish there were a way to upgrade that position, because Godfry is more of a liability than a help in the secondary.

Martin I think will develop to be a good FS (or possibly SS depending on where he goes). He seems to have the football knowledge to play the position well, and based on those stats above, does well in the type of game he plays. I feel he will only get better.

Proud Member of Cat Scratch Reader and coiner of the (minus Bowers) meme

by Ivan459 on Jun 2, 2011 3:30 PM EDT reply actions

^^Godfrey…

weird name

Proud Member of Cat Scratch Reader and coiner of the (minus Bowers) meme

by Ivan459 on Jun 2, 2011 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions

So its probably safe to assume you are not a Gilbert Godfrey fan?

C’mon!? Like Me!

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions

lol

Proud Member of Cat Scratch Reader and coiner of the (minus Bowers) meme

by Ivan459 on Jun 2, 2011 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions

Equally safe, then to assume you aren't aware that comedian's name is Gottfried. :-)

by bigdavis on Jun 2, 2011 4:35 PM EDT up reply actions

In looking for an appropriate picture I discovered that fact.

But phonetically identical, so I figured what the hell.

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions

No excuse. :P

Just messing with you.

"One play can win a game, but one play cannot lose a game." - Coach Peterson, Boise St.

"When you get into coaching, you strive to be a Super Bowl-winning head coach. That’s what my goal is, to come here and become a Super Bowl-winning head coach and to sustain an atmosphere of winning." - Ron Rivera

by jamiedk on Jun 2, 2011 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions

I figured if anyone would say anything about it, it would be bigd.

Such a scholar.

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 4:47 PM EDT up reply actions

It's not easy wearing all these Police helmets!

I can’t help myself, ERL – you da man, though. I like the pic.

by bigdavis on Jun 2, 2011 6:36 PM EDT up reply actions

I do remember seeing a segment on NFLN during the season...

Where they were analyzing some Panthers film (particularly pointing out Clausen’s obvious flaws – apparently not even seeing two wide-open receivers running crossing routes right in front of him). Anyway, they later took a look at the defense, and even said something along the lines of, “Because of the record, most people don’t realize that the Panthers actually have a pretty good defense.” And Martin was specifically pointed out as being a promising young player. If NFLN can be bothered to point out a good thing about a Panthers player, it says something.

I didn’t realize that Martin was as good as the tracking by Football Outsiders suggests. And I didn’t realize exactly how bad Godfrey was (I couldn’t help but notice his awful tackling, though). Hopefully adding Hogan to the mix and giving a serious look at Pugh will open up some more options as to line-ups in the secondary. I just keep remembering how Pugh made an INT in his first start (Martin had a concussion if I remember correctly), and I thought, “Damn…that kid looks really good.”

It’s not about his play at S, but Pugh also looked really good on the few returns he made (if I’m not mistaken, they were kick returns when Goodson was THE man at RB for a few games). Pugh (and Hogan based on college) may both get looks at returns.

"One play can win a game, but one play cannot lose a game." - Coach Peterson, Boise St.

by jamiedk on Jun 2, 2011 4:41 PM EDT reply actions

I am very excite about Hogan.

Guy is like a combination of Cap’n Munnerlyn, Aeneas Williams and Pac-Man Jones (mostly b/c of the WVU correlation). Now if he can just stay out the skrip clubs.

"Has the whole world gone crazy? Am I the only one around here who gives a sh!t about the rules? Mark it zero! "

by ERL on Jun 2, 2011 4:50 PM EDT up reply actions

And quit pissin' on trees.

by bigdavis on Jun 2, 2011 6:37 PM EDT up reply actions

Pugh really looks like a useful player.

With his flexibility to play both safety and corner, McDermott could be able to be really creative with some defenses.

Yes I'm a dude.

by Flowing Willow on Jun 2, 2011 8:00 PM EDT up reply actions

If Hogan can man up we got a steal.

Still it is good that we got some depth in the secondary.

I am a proud supporter of troll hunting---- me.
When I see or hear sports segments dedicated to fantasy sports I want drive a nail in my ear because it is less painful. --also me.

by bigred28655 on Jun 3, 2011 2:42 AM EDT up reply actions

Hope I'm not repeating anyone...

But wasn’t Godfrey the starting FS during his rookie and second year? Martin was a rookie and filled in for Godfrey when he broke his hand. That’s when Martin got, I think, 3 picks. I think thats why Fox switch their roles last year. Martin from corner to free saftey and Godfrey to strong saftey. Am I right on this? Or do I have an incredible imagination? The imagination part would not surprise me at all, lol!

by KevShan on Jun 2, 2011 6:48 PM EDT reply actions

Godfrey really just makes stupid mistakes.

The talent is there, he’s very athletic, strong, hard hitter, nose for the ball in the air, etc. He just goes for the big hit too often and makes mental errors in coverage, like not getting over in time to provide help over the top. Hopefully Meeks can help correct that, given he’ll be working more closely with the secondary. And if not, Pugh looks to be a very capable successor.

Yes I'm a dude.

by Flowing Willow on Jun 2, 2011 8:04 PM EDT reply actions

I, too, am not as down on Godfrey as some seem to be

His errors are correctable and he most definitely has the athleticism and ability. I’d be surprised to see him supplanted outside of injury or a major FA signing.

Maturity is knowing you were an idiot in the past. Wisdom is knowing you will be an idiot in the future and common sense is knowing you should try not to be an idiot now. - J. Jacques

by Vagus on Jun 2, 2011 9:44 PM EDT up reply actions

Agreed.

by Ryan439 on Jun 2, 2011 10:19 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions

Hopefully they both improve!

by tarheelz67 on Jun 3, 2011 1:28 AM EDT reply actions

Hillis murdered us in that game…

Proud Member of Cat Scratch Reader and coiner of the (minus Bowers) meme

by Ivan459 on Jun 3, 2011 2:59 AM EDT up reply actions

Not really a excuse but.....

Hillis is short, nothing but a lump of muscle and runs low, that mother is a load for anyone to bring down. Sort of like a smaller Alstott in his prime, with more speed, lol.

As the great philosopher Yoda said "Try not! Do you must!"

by gdhood on Jun 3, 2011 6:30 AM EDT up reply actions