Cat Scratch Reader: FanPosts

My Thoughts on Last Night's Game Against the Dolphins

2009-11-20T18:10:34Z

Hey, hey, Cat Scratch Reader! Currently, my official blog is on LockerBlogger.com, but I wanna share a few things with you guys over here every once in a while. If you want, check me out at the following address to hang out daily...

My LockerBlogger Blog

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Oh man... what a tough loss last night. We had a chance to win it - we really did - but we just didn't play the way we should've played.

In the first quarter, we played well defensively, but after that, we couldn't really get off the field on the 3rd down. There were just too many long drives on us. Obviously, the game didn't unfold the way we planned it to, so this one's definitely a tough pill to swallow.

Now we're even further behind the eight ball, sitting at a record of 4-6. We could have been back at .500, with our playoff chances looking much sweeter, but the season's not over yet. We still have six games left, and each one of them are going to be a dog fight. We don't have any room to spare, so we're pretty much gonna have to play a one game season from here on out.

The mood in the locker room stinks of disappointment, and now we have three whole days to sit around and think about last night's loss before we get back to practice on Monday. But, you know... we'll get over it and move onto the next game with our heads held high. The Jets are next, and we fully plan on making sure that game isn't a replay of last night's.

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So.

2009-11-20T04:55:44Z

Like all of you know.

this season has not gone as we planned.

and i guess the unlucky panthers trend has continued. more of the trend after the jump

i don't know if you all have noticed. but we tend to have a really good year. and then go into a slump for the next 2 years.

1996 12-4

1997 7-9

1998 4-12

1999 8-8

2000 7-9

2001 1-15

2002 7-9

2003 11-6

2004 7-9

2005 11-5

2006 8-8

2007 7-9

2008- 12-4

2009 4-6 atm..

what can we do to break this trend guys!

Where Do You Watch Games?

2009-11-19T23:57:28Z

So without the NFL Network in Time Warner Cable households, many in the Panthers fanbase are going to be subjected to bars, restaurants, and other people's homes. On that note, and in the spirit of Dr. Tarheel's great post on his tie, I'll try something fun for once. Where is your favorite place to watch the game when you can't get to the BoA? Do you have a cozy bar with nice specials? I never miss a Thurday night game at DJ's in Salisbury, where they'll pour a deep LIT for $4 every week. Or do you have a well-equipped man (or woman) cave complete with a giant HD plasma, cheaper drinks, and room to kick your feet up? No matter where we all are, we're always rooting for the Panthers, so I'd say things might be closer than many would give credit for.

The Power of the Tie!

2009-11-18T20:15:13Z

Hi Panther fans. I really must apologize to all of you and the team. I let you all down this year.

You see, it goes back to last year. I got a Panther's tie for my birthday, and I wore it every week we played last year. The Panthers went 12-4, and I tried to improve the mojo by wearing it twice the week of the AZ playoff game. Obviously the second day cancelled out the power of the first, as the Panthers had no mojo in that game at all after the first score.

Now about this tie; it is black with blue and white lettering and images. It features the official Panthers logo, and I work in a very conservative office in the western USA where it actually violates the dress code. My wife constantly reminds me of that when I wear the tie.

So, at the beginning of the year, I did not wear my tie. We all know what happened. The Eagles dominated. I continued to not wear the tie each week as the Panthers tumbled to an 0-3 record looking pitiful each week. The truth is, I was not even thinking about it. During the bye week, though I realized what I'd done. I repented, and come Thursday morning before the Redskins game, I was donning the tie as I went to work.

It wasn't pretty, but there it was; win number 1. I wore it again the following Thursday, and lo and behold we got win #2 against the hapless Bucs. I was so excited, and sure we would manhandle the Bills, that I didn't think we needed the powerful mojo inducing power of the tie, and did not wear it that week.

Please forgive me all! I didn't realize what power I had at my disposal. We needed the mojo badly that day as the Panthers played worse football than maybe even the AZ playoff game.

Okay, 2-4, and facing the Cardinals, I went back to the Thursday wearing Panthers tie. All you Panthers opponents out there, "FEAR THE TIE!!!". Obviously, the mojo was back and powerful mojo it was! Panthers 34 -21.

Well, after the playoff game last year with the mistake of wearing the tie twice, I knew we needed even more mojo going up against New Orleans, so I risked changing up my strategy a bit and wore the tie on Tuesday before the Saints game. Did you see the first half? 17-6 Panthers! But we peaked early. The mojo wore off.

I hope I've learned my lesson. I went back to wearing the tie on Thursday last week. Panthers won again.

I'm in a quandry. This week we play on Thursday. If I wear the tie on Thursday, will the powerful Panther tie mojo get there too late?

I've decided to wear the tie on Wednesday this week, and back to Thursdays the rest of the year. We'll find out tomorrow if it's enough.

Beat the Dolphins, Jets, and Bucs and we're 7-5. Go 2-2 with those tough last 4 games, and who knows, maybe we're playoff bound again.

Go Panthers!

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Do any of you have any lucky apparel, or habits which contribute to our team's success? Let me know. Let's all align our charms for maximum mojo inducing success!

Poll

Do you have a superstition or charm concerning the Panthers?

Ask the Phinsider

2009-11-18T17:13:53Z

Greetings Panthers fans from the Phinsider! Jaxon kindly put up one of these posts over on our blog and asked if one of us could do the same over here, so I decided to oblige him.

So we'll be here to answer any of your Miami Dolphins questions that you may have. To start with, Ronnie Brown is going to be out for this game, while Coach Sparano has said that Joey Porter will play. So fire away with any questions and we'll answer them as best as we can. Here's hoping for a good and injury free game!

Foxhole, "Answering" some of the questions we've all had.

2009-11-17T22:10:39Z

I found this Foxhole to be a bit more interesting than most. We typically get the same questions with very similar questions, however this one caught my eye as being a bit more precise as to what we've actually been discussing around here.

Oh, and by "answering" I do mean a coach doing what a coach does, addressing questions without giving way too much information.

On injuries: Out: Jordan Gross - ankle. Did not participate: Charles Godfrey - ankle, Brad Hoover - ankle, Charles Johnson - pectoral, and Jonathan Stewart - Achilles. Limited participation: Damione Lewis - shoulder.

On signing wide receiver Charly Martin from the practice squad: He's a guy that's been working real hard. He's out here practicing every day. He's definitely caught the coaches' eyes as far as what he's done on the practice field working against our first-unit defense. He's a bigger guy that could help in the kicking game as well as at receiver.

On preparing for a game on a short week: It's a quick turnaround. This is the first time we've ever done this. We turned down the tempo of practice some to get the guys refreshed and still try to get our work done. I thought guys moved around really well today and seemed pretty into it. They looked good today, and, hopefully, we can cram two days work in tomorrow. I thought today we handled it well.

On the challenges of playing on a short week: One thing about this league is they've got the same schedule. If they had four extra days rest, I'd be a little more nervous. Both teams have to operate under it. To try to refresh guys the best you can and still get your work in - it's a fine line. Time will tell.

On having a limited amount of time to get ready for the Dolphins' Wildcat offense: We've been preparing for it all season. We played them in the preseason. That wasn't even ridiculously close to how we'll play them this time. I think we've got a good plan, and we'll see how well we execute it. But this wouldn't be the first week we've practiced it.

On the development of guard Mackenzy Bernadeau: He was here all year last year. I thought he was a fine, young prospect. The offensive line is a little bit like quarterback in that it takes a little bit of time to get used to all of the calls and schemes. He's been our lineman in waiting so to speak all season long and he would have been our first guy in on any injury. Unfortunately, we did have that injury, so he steps in. He's a guy we feel good about, and I know he's excited about playing this week.

On Bernadeau going from a small school (Bentley College) to starting in the NFL: I had a guy (Carlton Haselrig) similar like that when we were in Pittsburgh. He didn't play college football; he was a wrestler that developed. He's (Bernadeau's) got good leverage; he's a good athlete; and he's a smart guy. Those are three good combinations. Our staff has done a good job with him, and he's done a good job of picking everything up and doing it at a high level.
On Dolphins quarterback Chad Henne: He's athletic. He's big and strong. He does have a good arm. He's a young quarterback. Just like any quarterback in this league, you've got to be ready to play, and he's shown some good moments on tape. Hopefully, we'll be able to execute.

I find Charly Martin to be an interesting sign. Perhaps I am reading too much into what could have been a simple decision but I find it reassuring that they didn't feel the need to sign another tackle but instead are confident enough in their back-ups.

I also enjoy contemplating the idea that we are realizing our need for another WR. Of course, I don't expect a PS addition to see much, or any, playing time, much less make an impact, but who knows? Anything can happen in the NFL.

I really think we're going to be able to contain Miami, even on this short week. Especially when given consideration that they have got to contain Williams and Stewart, meanwhile we must simply contain another Williams and the Wildcat.

I hope Peppers is able to play more so than he did against Atlanta, though I doubt it if his hand is truly broken.

Gross out for more than likely rest of the season with broken ankle.

2009-11-16T02:49:01Z

Another blow to our team and worst fears realized.

Well you can basically put Jordan Gross on injuried reserve panthers fans b/c he has a broken ankle suffered in today's game against the ATL Falcons. Gross leg injury looked terrible and our worst fears are confirmed thanks to Reeder of Carolinagrowl.com (link to story below). However we could keep him active and simply not dress him so that in case we get back into the playoff picture we can have him avaliable so Fox and company have an interesting choice to make considering we can beat the Dolphins.

As with a T. Davis their is no replacing a Jordan Gross and we lose a valuable vet, "C" and laslty our best O-lineman.

Panthers new look O-Line w/ Gross:

LT: Wharton (Williams or Schwartz Backup)

LG: M. Bernadeau (Willams/ Robinson/Schwartz)

C: R. Kalil (Bernadeau)

RG: K Vincent (Robinson/Williams/Schwartz)

RT: J. Otah (Schwartz)

I still believe in the end that we place J. Gross on IR; free up a roster spot and try to at least look at a free agent but really who is out their that is any good and with our cap situation I doubt we even look at free agents to fill the void and you cannot replace a Jordan Gross and easier than you can replace a T. Davis. Williams or Robinson get their first action of the season on Thursday regardless.

PS squad offers no help either b/c we only have one O-Lineman on it and it is Dustin Fry and he is a center but has decent size, however their is no way he gets a jersey this week. Williams or Robinson time for Foxy to pick. Personally I would like to see what we have in Garry Williams.

However we rose above injuries so far this year so look for the Panthers to do more of the same against a banged up Miami team that stuggled alot today against a bad but slightly improved Bucs team.

Smitty has bruised ribs and is day to day and he will play on Thursday but don't look for him, Stewart, Williams, Rosario, or Hoover to practice this week.

Go Panthers

Link:

http://reederstake.freedomblogging.com/2009/11/15/breaking-news-gross-has-broken-ankle-smith-should-be-fine/2815/

Poll

What should the Panthers do at the LT spot w/ Gross out for long time or more than likely the season ?

Morning Of The Red Birds

2009-11-15T14:47:39Z

[Note: My struggles with the visual editor continue as I can't remove the italics from the lower portion of this post. My apologies if it is difficult to read.]

So here we are, another week has passed by since our bitter loss in New Orleans. Some palettes have been swiped clean, meanwhile others still have the taste of defeat salivating in their mouths and are looking for a side of vengeance this week.

We have all set our sights on shooting the Falcons down and it seems entirely possible that we may do so. They are coming into our home and the Panthers are deep in the under-dog position, where we love to be. We all know what Carolina needs to do but I'm sure most of you are worried of what we will do, just as I am. Do we play Foxball or take flight courtesy Jeffair?

Prediction: Foxball. I think even Jeff understands what we need do now... then again, I've thought that for a while and he keeps amazing me.

Although my previous prediction (one which I still stand by), earlier in the week, has Carolina winning 20-17, the Falcons have averaged over 25 points per game this season, meanwhile our defense has given up an average of 24 per game. With that, I won't be too surprised if my prediction ends up on the lower end of the actual score.

Carolina and Atlanta enter this game giving up, on average, 122(#23) and 123(#24) yards on the ground, respectively. The biggest difference here, defensively speaking, is Carolina's 6th ranked pass defense versus Atlanta's 26th. That seems pretty significant...

Until you look on the other side of the ball... With Jake yet to find himself this season (bravo on two interception-free games - it's like he's in rehab for QB's, one step at a time), the Falcons may not need anything more than a 26th ranked pass defense to keep Delhomme in check today.

That brings us to the question: which Jake will we see today? Will we all be pleasantly surprised to see the re-emergence of Ol' Jake or will we get another dose of Jake "Oops, wrong team" Delhomme?

Prediction: Jake Delhomme - 200+ yards, 1 TD, 0 INT

As I write this, there is a small voice in the back of my mind asking "An entire game with no interceptions? Are you sure?". Yes, fellow Panther fans, I am sure. Two weeks clean now, I think Delhomme can finally kick the habit this week!

So, I gave'em 'one of them-there elusi-fy-ing touchdowns' but who's going to be the lucky recipient of these rare gifts? Follow me off of the ledge here, bringing in touchdown number two of the season, it's going to be the mighty, mighty Steve Smith! Something's going to piss him off and we all know what happens when Steve Smith gets angry.

Prediction: Steve Smith - 100+ yards, 1 TD

Who accounts for the other 100? I'm looking for Jarrett to catch a few but overall I see Barnidge and Rosario, if he plays, being the other outlets.

That takes care of the ailing side of things but what about the meat of our offense? That has been a prominent question running through my mind daily as I've followed Williams' practices (or lack of, I suppose). My opinions are split here, so rather than try and predict if he plays or not, I'll simply provide predictions for both options...

Prediction W/ D-Will:
DeAngelo Williams - 55 yards
Jonathan Stewart - 75 yards, 1 TD
Tyrell Sutton - 15 yards

Prediction W/O D-Will:
Jonathan Stewart - 110 yards, 1 TD
Tyrell Sutton - 35 yards
Mike Goodson - 8 yards, 12 rec. yards

Regardless of whether Williams plays or not, I don't think he will be as effective as usual. His knee certainly isn't going to be 100% and he'll probably see less carries to avoid further aggravation. Stewart is going to have to step up, meanwhile I think Sutton will spell him. I expect Goodson will see a couple of carries and reception or two if Williams is a no-go.

All together, I expect the offense to yield a total of 350 yards, give or take.

I've put together a short list of vows for this game in an attempt to better support Carolina.

I will not cringe every time Delhomme drops back to pass.

I will not criticize Davidson for his play-calling until the game is complete.

I will watch this game with an open mind to both passing and running.

I will not start DeAngelo Williams in my FFL for if I do, he will surely have a miserable game.

I will not spend 3 hours cursing Davidson for everything he is worth.

As you can see, these vows are, in majority, for Jeff Davidson. Just as Jake is our QB, Davidson is our O.C. and, as much as I currently dislike him, I will support his and Fox's game plan into the waning seconds of the game, until it is complete.

Why? It may be the furthest stretch thus far but I expect them to finally get the play calling right this week!

With just over 3 hours remaining before Carolina and Atlanta take the field, I'm sure that this will be a close one, as usual, but I'm very confident that we can edge Atlanta out in the end.

Final Prediction: Carolina 20 - Atlanta 17

Carolina's MVP: Jonathan Stewart
Atlanta's MVP: Michael Turner

Both will be essential in converting third & short, a down I expect both teams to see a lot of today. Both are power backs with only a 9 pound difference between the two, and both will be responsible for extending what would otherwise be punting drives for their team. Whichever back ends up with the better stat line at the end of the day could very well lead to which team comes out victorious.

I can't wait to see what unfolds this week.

On a side note, I wonder how Green Bay feels about letting Tyrell Sutton go? Ryan Grant is playing just above mediocrity and I doubt how many carries Ahman Green can take before he falls apart. Sutton hasn't received the chance to prove himself yet but Green Bay is one misstep away from having no valid threat at running back.

Jordan Gross needs to step it up in pass protection

2009-11-14T16:03:50Z

After half a season, the Panthers have allowed 18 sacks on the QB.

Jordan Gross has a whopping 7 (SEVEN) of those! Per this Fanhouse.com post, that ties for the league lead -- and he's giving them up quick, averaging, by their assessment, 2.6 seconds from the time the ball's snapped.

http://nfl.fanhouse.com/2009/11/13/between-the-lines-whos-allowing-the-most-sacks/#cont

15 of the 18 the Panthers have allowed are directly attributable to offensive linemen (3 each to Otah and Wharton, only 1 each to Vincent and Kalil) -- so the other 3 lie either on Delhomme or an unidentified RB or TE who missed a block on a blitz.

It's not acceptable to be an All-Pro, get an All-Pro's paycheck, and be leading the league in such an infamous category as this -- especially when he's protecting the blindside, and the sacks he surrenders often lead to lost fumbles.

New Direction

2009-11-14T09:14:28Z

I do believe it is time for a coaching and QB change in PANTHER territory. There are only two (2) answer for the debucile:

1) Coaching

2) QB

There is no reason for the Panthers to be where they are today. Last year (11-4) was to be the start of something beautiful. Management has just turned things upside down. When is the owner going to put Jake on the bench becuase the coaches aren't. I understand loyality, but d.... how about loyality to your other players? Don't you think they would like to have a winning season? Of course they are going to say they have their QBs back, what do you expect?

Enought for now!

How do we get a franchise QB in the offseason?

2009-11-13T20:51:15Z

There are a couple ways to go about this. One is to hope that someone falls to us in the draft, (we will pick somewhere between the 38th-45th pick). The other option is to trade away that pick with a player or future picks.

I'm leaning towards the former, because I don't want to be sitting here next year with the same sick feeling, (not having a first-round pick). Maybe Pike, Locker, or even McCoy will fall to us. Mel Kiper thinks McCoy is a second-rounder. Plus I don't think trading anyone away is a good idea. It's going to take a Jonathan Stewart or Julius Peppers to get back into the top 15 picks, and I just don't think its worth it. I think Bradford will go in the top 5, and people I respect think Locker (Washington Huskies) and Clausen (Notre Dame) might too. There is no way we can trade the 39th pick and Stewart for, say, the 3rd overall pick, no one is going to go for that, in real life. Someone probably would go for that if we are asking for the 15th pick, but who is going to be available then that won't be available 20 picks later? So all this "trade Smith, Peppers, Stewart BS needs to stop. This is not how you build a team. Keep your core and build around it.

So what do we do folks?

Who do you think would/should be the next starting QB in Carolina? How do we acquire said player?

A Newbs Take on Things

2009-11-12T05:17:46Z

Hey guys,

Im a college student who loves everything panthers. I am a relatively new fan and have been following them since the 06 season. I've become almost die hard as Ive watched them over the years. Ive been following this site for about just as long and thought "what the heck". Besides ive always wanted to put in my imput on the post here. Anyway, now on the the good stuff.

Im sorry but this wasnt the only site. i also follow carolinahuddle.com. Well i wasn't satified with them like i was this kick a** site. Anyway, they come up with some stupid discussions. One is trade Jstew for Jason Campbell or Steve Smith for Wes Welker and Brandon Tate. It makes me sick to here such talk.

1) Jason Campbell hasn't shown he can play consistenly in this league.

2) Unless our other running backs can show they can play (not talk about D-will), we need Jstew. We dont want to run D-will into the ground. Look at Eddie George, Lt, and Jamal lewis. We need a compliment to him for change of pace and so that he can play past 30 years old. I know we need a QB but that will come through a smarter trade, free agency, or the draft.

3)Im not even going to get started on getting rid of Steve Smith. Its not his fault and i love his passion. He is a top 5 receiver and he actually like it here. You dont give that up.

Now onto the season. Look, i know things are rough now but we still have a chance. I'll admit, i was crushed by the injury to Thomas Davis. I means hes a monster and he didn't deserve to go out that way. However, whats done is done and we must look ahead. I think its possible that the panthers can truly turn it around. I have been saying it for the past couple of months the Jake Delhomme is an ok QB but is a great leader. He can right this ship with our running game on a hotstreak and our top ten defense. WE are going to play the falcons and i truely believe they aren't half the team we are. Matty Ice is struggling and our defense will take advantage our that. We have a big fat boy in the middle name Hollis Thomis (I think hes been amazing) who will help us stop MIcheal Turner on the Ground. Now their defense is terrible, their corners are garbage and our runn game is awsome. Plus Jake has thrown for close to 300 yrds the past couple of outing against them. Something smells like victory

What I liked, like, will like. Week 10 ed.

2009-11-12T01:51:49Z

What i liked

Good job by the panthers throughout the majority of the game. Even though you lost, the score was definitly worse than the game was.
Jake Delhomme: no turnovers in 2 games. You can clearly blame your misfortune now on the recieving corps. Liked your confidence with the pass to Steve Smith late in the game when the Saints D clearly knew that you were going to air it out.
Thomas Davis: Clearly in the liked section.

What I like

The panthers schedule may be hard but they have many teams that are in a bad position for the current time.
Bojengles: Jake you got me hooked.

What I will like

The panthers going against a team that is falling in their skill

One Fans Panthers 2009 Mid-Season Report Card

2009-11-09T03:42:47Z

Hey There Panther Fans,

I know you are as down as I about this heartbreaker to the Saints, but thought it would be a good time (since it is the midpoint of our season) to evaluate our team and predict the last half. Please let me know what you think about my evaluation...too harsh...too lenient... just right? Also, give me your perspective on things, How do you think this team has played and where do you think this team is headed from here on out??? With that said, here is my....

Carolina Panthers 2009 Mid-Season Report: Evaluation & Prediction

The Carolina Panthers started their 2009 season off slowly, stumbling early and often. September was not a good month for the Cats, as they lost to Philly, ATL, and Dallas and could not find their identity. October was meagerly better, but only because the Panthers faced the easiest teams on their schedule, being Washington, TB, and Buffalo winning the former two and losing to the Bills. The loss to Buffalo must have stimulated something within this Panther team, because they completely transformed into a different team heading into Arizona. In Arizona, the Cats pulled out an upset and ran all over the Cards, who were one of the top rush defenses. Also, the Cats emerged into the #1 Pass defense and #7 Overall defense in the league, which has become a huge surprise. The Cats carried this momentum into Nola, where they put up a tremendous fight with the best team in the league and came away just a bit shy of a win. The Panthers at this point in the mid-season are 3-5, and are a lot better than their record shows. Even though the Cats have a losing record thus far, Panther fans have much to be excited about as this team has played like a playoff contender in the past 2 weeks.

Offense

The Panthers offense sputtered early this season, and didn’t really get going until the Arizona game in wk 6. Early on, the offense line played very poorly as did Jake. Jake has been much of the criticism for this season, as he has had only 5tds and 13 ints and has been a burden of the team. Double Trouble also were slow to get rolling, and put up very modest numbers for the first 6 wks. Smitty, a once feared and dynamic threat, has been suppressed.

The Panthers O’ in the past two weeks, however, has been radically different. The Cats have gotten their running game going back to the levels of 2008, as D-Will has ran for about 150 yds per game. Although the Panthers now have the 3rd best rushing attack in the league, they are almost completely one dimensional. J-Stew has again been a great complement, as he has a 4.4avg, 4tds, and about 400yds on the ground. Not much has been seen of Mike Goodson, which is suprising given how much he played in the preseason. I, for one, thought that Goodson was such a talent and threat that Davidson would introduce some wrinkles into the offense merely to get Goodson involved, but I have been wrong. Tyrell Sutton, the Panthers 4th back surprisingly saw a little bit of action against the Saints, having 3 runs for 15yds. The Panthers also have not used the Wildcat, or any trick plays very much, staying with the conservative pound up the middle scheme. Much of this success on the ground must be attributed to the Offensive line picking up their game as they have created more running space for the backs.

Smitty still hasn’t had a breakout game, and much of that is due to Jake. In the past two games, the Coaches have changed the philosophy of the offense, pilling up running yards in order to limit Jake’s throws, to limit INTs. Although no one has been able to stop our running game as of the past 2 games, the Cats have much to improve upon and look terrified to throw the ball. The ‘Moose’ has been out a couple of games, and Jarrett has filled in adequately for him, his best game being the Saints, in which he had 4 catches for 30 yds. Although this is not great, and not very good, it is adequate provided that Jarrett has had limited chances to make plays. Tight Ends have been very useful in both the running game and especially the passing game as Jeff King, Dante Rosario, and Gary Barnidge have added some spark to the passing game. Kenny Moore, although a standout in the preseason, has only had 4 catches for 47 yds, but much of his low productivity can be attributed to his limited playing time.

Overall, the Panthers Offense and running game in particular, although sputtered early, has improved through the first 8 games. But, if the Cats are to become a playoff caliber team, they have more to improve upon as they must find some passing game and get Smith involved.

Grade: C

Defense

Although the D was the weaker part of the team at the beginning of the year as they seemed unable to grasp Meeks Tampa 2 system, they have actually come together and have become the stalwart of the team, now being a top ten D and top pass D.

Although the pass D has gotten much better, much of the improvement on the D side of the ball has been at the line. Julius Peppers, although a no-show at the beginning of the year, has upped his game and now has 28tckls, 7scks, and 3 FFs. At the other end, Tyler Brayton looks much improved from last year and is a contributor in the pass rush, having 25 tckls, 2scks, and 1FF. On the interior, where the Panthers were woefully inept at the beginning of the year, Hollis Thomas and Tank Tyler have filled in quite nicely for what have been a slew of injuries at the DT position. Thomas and Tyler have most importantly been able to seal up the interior 2 gap, allowing the LBs to freely bounce around and make critical tackles. Altogether, D-Lew, Thomas, and Tyler have had 33 tckls from the interior, which is solid considering 2 of them have played only a limited # o’ games. Everette Brown, the Panthers 1st round pick (well, for what they spent on him) has been limited to some 3rd down plays and has been good thus far for a 3rd down lineman, having 8tckles, 1sck, and 2FFs. The much overlooked 3rd DE, Charles Johnson, has made a splash in his small amount of playing time as he has racked up 13 tckls, 3scks, and 2FFs. Overall the Panthers line has been pretty darn good, and Julius Peppers has called it ‘the best rotation’ he has been in yet!

The ‘Backers have been beyond excellent this year, they are super-awesome tackling machines! Thomas Davis has really adapted well to Meeks new system, having 61 tckls, 2 INTs and a sack. Jon Beason hasn’t been a slouch either though, contributing 63 tckls, 2 scks, and an INT. Diggs also has 16 tckls and a sack, and Anderson having 16tckles and sack. It is important to note that the Backers have the most tackles of the entire D, which ultimately means that they have been able to stop the run almost by themselves, without much need for the secondary to come down and play a role.

Although not many thought it at the beginning of the year, the Secondary has surprisingly become great, becoming the #1pass D in wk 8. Gamble, although has not been ‘lock down’ per se, has been a steady corner accumulating 24 tckls and 1 INT. Richard Marshall, the past year’s nickel back, has really upped his game as a starter, having 31 tckls and 2 INTs. Capt. Munnerlyn, the Cats 7th round pick, has been a great surprise at the nickel back position, having 23 tckls and really impressing people with his speed. Dante Wesley and CJ Wilson have been fine backups and fine fill in CBs thus far. Harris has been his usual self, a hard tackler, contributing 26 tckls. Godfrey has been adequate, but by no means great, contributing 21 tckles and a sack. The real surprise this year has been Sherrod Martin, the Cats 2nd round Safety, who in 2 games already has 10 tckles and 2 ints. Martin could replace Godfrey due to his stellar performances, but due to Fox’s tendency to stick with the vet, he’ll probably choose Godfrey. All in all, the Panthers secondary has been much improved over last year, as it was the weakness of many games, including the Arizona playoff loss.

Altogether, the Cats D really has adjusted to the Tampa 2, although it has taken some time. Meeks has these players playing fast and aggressive, flying to the ball and making plays now in the past couple of games. The Panthers D really has given the offense the chance to win the game and has been very good in the red zone. What is most interesting to me about this D is the new found flexibility that Meeks has implemented. Although the Cats stick to their usual 4-3 and Tampa 2, they refreshingly have been mixing it up lately, introducing the “Joker” package with 3 down lineman, 2 backers, a ‘Joker’ or ‘spy’, and 5 DBs. This flexibility has worked because the Panthers have fast players, which has enabled them to play packages like this. In addition, the D-line also has shown flexibility, moving Pep left and right, Brayton and Johnson inside and out, and rotating players like the rookie Brown. All in all, Meeks has implemented a wonderful D that has complemented our players ability very well.

Grade: B

Special Teams

The “Kicking game” this year has been fairly atrocious, but can be attributed to the inexperience that this group has. Kick and Punt returns have been average, and at times horrendous (I simply look away during punt returns hoping for the best!). Goodson, although very talented, has not been a breakaway threat on Kick returns and Kenny Moore has not great at punt returns either. My personal favorite at PR was Munnerlyn, being that he is very shifty, fast, and able to get to through the scrum, although he has a tendency to get nervous waiting for that ball to come down. You name it and the Panthers special teams has allowed it, a Punt block, kick block, letting the other team have a PR for TD, KR for TD…basically the Panthers ST has been pretty awful.

Grade: D+/C-

Conclusion & Prediction

At this point, the Panthers are 3-5, but as I have been saying, the Fans have much to be optimistic about, as Fox has righted the ship that ran astray, getting his players playing at a high level once again. The Panthers playoff hopes are pretty slim now that they have lost to Nola, mainly because the rest of their schedule is fairly brutal: ATL, MIA, NYJ, NE, MINN, NYG, and Nola once again. The good news is that the Cats play 5 at home and 3 more on the road. Because the Cats are playing at a high level once again, and are down from this last loss to Nola, I can envision a win over ATL, but am skeptical that it will happen unless the passing game gets together. So, unfortunately, I think we will lose another to the Falcons, though it will be close! Fox almost always has his players revved up for a big game, and I expect the Panthers to play big on natl TV versus the Fins. The home TB game should also be a win, but other than that the Panthers play a pretty tough stretch and I would not be surprised to see the Panthers win only 1 of the last four left mainly because they are a one dimensional team. Although the Panthers are playing well, they have dug themselves in a hole early in the year. In the last half of the year, the Panthers will probably only win 2-3 games, unfortunately. Although I originally stated that the Panthers would go somewhere between 7 to 9 wins, I think it is probably more realistic now to think that it will be between 6 and 7 wins. I still hold that the Cats won’t win the NFC South Title, and from here on out it is most likely that they won’t win a wild card due to the competition for those spots. I would absolutely love to be wrong, and the Panthers to go on a mean winning streak and sneak into the playoffs, but am doubtful of that at this point. The best the Panthers can do this year is try to break even at 8-8, but that won’t happen, it will be another losing season following a great season for the Panthers. At this point, it is too difficult to tell whether Fox will be fired, but one thing is for sure, and that is that Jake won’t be our starter next year (although I could be wrong, which I would hate to be in that case)….

Prediction: 6-10 or 7-9 season

Poll

In the 2nd half of the season, how many wins will the Panthers MOST REALISTICALLY (Mind you) have?

Panthers Vs. Saints: Ups and Downs

2009-11-10T04:56:01Z

Last Sundays game showed that the Panthers can stay in the game with most of the teams in the NFL. One thing about the game that I noticed was Jonathan Stewart. On a couple of his runs that I saw he started in one direction and had a couple people to block. But he ended up switching directions and running towards the group in the middle of the field. He looked hesitant and wasn't how he usually is. A power back that likes to hit people and punish them for getting in his way. He wasn't himself and I don't know if it was because of his ankle or what. DeAngelo Williams proved once again why he is our starter and a premiere runningback in the NFL. Dwayne Jarret showed promise in points of the game and it would have been nice for him to catch the 40 yard pass from Delhomme. I mean Marques Colston dropped passes left and right. So you can't say it is because he isn't any good. Stuff happens and the best he can do is keep trying. Jake Delhomme tried to take some chances and he did a pretty good job. I know he didn't do that well but the fact is he took chances without turning the ball over. So I was impressed by him. I think the Panther that showed the best improvement was Gary barnidge. He caught the balls that were thrown at him and he tried his best to get the extra yards. he had that one fumble but it was saved after it had gone out of bounds. With the loss of yet another key player I see another lossing season for this year. But the only thing that we can do is hope for a Great draft and try again next year.

Poll

Who stepped Up

Ask The Falcoholic Part Two: The Askening

2009-11-09T05:24:37Z

Heck of a game against the Saints, guys. I was really hoping you'd win.

Coming this weekend is a game I really hope you don't win, of course, but you've turned your season around in a big way. I'm anticipating a tough game.

But of course, that's not why I'm here, to make you guys feel good about yourselves. I'm here to answer your questions about the Falcons. You wanna know about Matt Ryan? You sez you gotta know about Michael Turner? Okays then.

Please remember to recommend this post so it will stay near the top for anyone who wants to ask questions this week. Fire away!

Carolina @ New Orleans; A 1st & 2nd Half Comparison

2009-11-09T05:09:34Z

Most of you witnessed this game with your own eyes, meanwhile others followed stats online. There is not much to say that the majority of fans do not already know, however I offer my opinion on both the first half Panthers as well as the second half.

A thousand words each, in two seconds.

First Half:

Second Half:

And there you have it, both halves summed up, in my opinion, quite well.

Please note that I am not implying that the Saints are a group of rats whom luckily weaseled by, by any means.... Honest....

EDIT: In fact, lets name this rat Jeff.

Poll

Should we name the rat above Jeff?

Jeff Davidson -- epic fail

2009-11-09T04:54:00Z

Thanks for blowing it, Jeff.

Sometimes, I just don't understand what goes through Jeff Davidson's mind. He has to be the dumbest offensive play-caller in the league. There is no reason to believe that he knows what he is doing -- he is just sitting there with his play sheet, calling the most asinine plays he can possibly come up with.

Obviously he isn't watching the same game that everyone else is watching, because his play-calls show that either (a) he has no idea how to run an offense, or (b) he thinks he's playing Madden 10 instead of coaching a real football game.

Case in point. The Panthers are down 23-20 with 4:36 to go in the 4th quarter and have the ball on the Saints' 43 yard line. They have 1st and 10 with 2 timeouts left. They have two of the best running backs in the league (one who already had 100+ rushing yards and 2 TDs). The logical thing would be to run the ball, take some time off the clock, and move into FG range or get a touchdown. That would be the logical thing to do. But, what does Davidson call? THREE STRAIGHT PASSING PLAYS?!? WTF IS THAT?!?

Below is a breakdown of Davidson's ineptitude. (The ball is on the NO 43)

1st & 10 -- Jonathan Stewart 2 yd run.
2nd & 8 -- deep pass incomplete to Steve Smith
3rd & 8 -- deep pass incomplete to Dwayne Jarrett
4th & 8 -- Delhomme sacked & fumbles (recovered by Saints -- which is irrelevant)

Okay, someone please explain to me why the Panthers have to take three shots downfield in this situation. They have a dynamite running game. Why don't they just run the ball three times? Certainly they can get 8 yards in three attempts, can't they? And, if they run the ball twice and are stuffed -- then I can understand throwing it on 4th & 8. But, throwing deep downfield on 2nd (and 3rd) & 8 is inconceivable to me.

Hopefully John Fox will see that Davidson's inability to make a decent call on offense is costing this team winnable games, and hopefully Davidson will be relieved of his duties as soon as the plane lands in Charlotte tonight.

But of course Davidson won't be fired. He will be right back on the sidelines next week, leading the Panthers to yet another loss in a winnable game because he can't figure out that throwing the ball 30+ times a game is a bad idea.

Enjoy this loss, Jeff -- because this one's on you.

#1 Ranked Pass Defense: Real or Mirage?

2009-11-08T14:26:24Z

Going into last weeks game against Arizona, Carolina was atop the pass defense rankings. Many thought this was more a product of the run defense struggling than actual talent on the defensive side. But after an incredible five pick day of Kurt Warner, many are becoming believers. This week, we have the Saints, and while similar to the Cardinals in many ways, they are a much different monster. While the Cardinals focus more on the short to medium passes, letting Kurt Warner use his laser accuracy and rocket release to torch the defense, the Saints have a more vertical attack. They will go deep down the seams and towards the sidelines. Henderson, Moore, and Meachem are speed demons, while Colston and Shockey will out jump you for it. The Saints also are potent out of the backfield, Bush and Thomas will both burn you with flats, screens, and swings. Lets examine the stats and see if we can expect similar results today from our boys. Please note gentlemen, that these stats and my interpretation of them are not foolproof, and the only way to truly judge a corner is to watch film.

Lets first examine our top three corners. Here are some stats I pulled off of another forum.

Updated metrics through seven games:

Gamble TA 29 times, Allowed 21 receptions for 228 yards and 1 TD, catch percentage of 72% at 10.85 YPC.

Marshall TA 33 times, Allowed 16 receptions for 159 yards and 2 INTs, catch percentage of 48% at 10 YPC.

Munnerlyn TA 22 times, Allowed 17 receptions for 194 yards and 1 TD, catch percentage of 77% at 11.4 YPC.

Other stats:

Marshall: 25 solo, 3 assist, 5 PD.

Gamble: 16 solo, 2 assist, 4 PD.

Munnerlynn: 20 solo, 1 assist, 1 PD.

What do these stats tell us? Well it doesn't take much to see that Marshall is clearly playing the best football of the group. There are the stats most fans pay attention to, INT's and PD's to a lesser degree, and in that regard Marshall is no slouch. 2 INT's and 5 PD's halfway through the season is pretty good. But Marshall is also playing out of his mind in the other, more important, less visible stats of catch percentage and catches allowed. 48% catch percentage is flipping insane! It's made more impressive by the fact he's been thrown to 33 times! The stats also show that Marshall is no finesse corner, if we assume every time he allowed a catch he made the solo tackle, that adds up to nine solo and 3 assists in run support. With demons at linebacker like TD and Beaston, 12 total run support tackles in on isn't too shabby.

As for our other corners, Gamble and Munnerlynn are playing pretty well too, not up to par with Marshall, but not too shabby either. At a first glance, it would seem Munnerlynn is outperforming Gamble, allowing less yards and catches, but if you look closely you'll see Gamble is outperforming Munnerlynn in the key areas, catch percentage and YPC. Gamble is allowing close to 1/2 yard less than Munnerlynn, and with the significant jump in targets between him and the Captain, that is pretty impressive. Factor in Gambles PD's and it's clear that Gamble is the better cover corner. BUT, Munnerlynn is more physical, as evidenced by the fact he is outperforming Gamble in tackles with less time. 4 total run support tackles in the nickel, pretty good considering how few times teams run towards the nickel.

So to close, if we get pressure, we can repeat. Marshall and Munnerlynn are both physical, tough guys, although Munnerlynn has a tendency to get beat deep. If those two can knock them off their routes, and give the D-line time to get in Brees face, we have a ball hawk at safety now who can take advantage. I call our #1 ranked pass defense the real deal. GO PANTHERS!!!!! : )

Navy vs Notre Dame

2009-11-07T23:28:44Z

Jimmy Clausen of the Fighting Irish had 37-51 pass attempts completed for 452 yards, two touchdowns, 1 INT.

Navy wins the game, 23-21.

Something just seems wrong with that. Something seems terribly, unmistakably wrong.