Cat Scratch Reader - Carolina Panthers vs Green Bay Packers: Week 15 full coverageKeep Pounding!https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48401/catscratchreader_fave.png2017-12-20T10:00:02-05:00http://www.catscratchreader.com/rss/stream/165353092017-12-20T10:00:02-05:002017-12-20T10:00:02-05:00The Hog Molly Report: Panthers vs Packers
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<figcaption>Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Another week, and another big victory from the Carolina Panthers. The late season surges under Ron Rivera march onward, and once again, the Hog Mollies played a major part.</p> <p id="Zx6Z4j">Welcome ladies and gentlemen to the Hog Molly Report, where winning in the trenches is all that matters. Before we begin, we open with the reciting of our usual motto:</p>
<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="ZrQFcZ"><q>“Big men allow you to compete. We're certainly going to look at the big hog mollies.” </q></aside></div>
<p id="KtcN7j">In the spirit of Mr. Gettleman’s words (regardless of him having moved on) and the philosophy of building a team from the inside out, my goal will be to watch the hog mollies each game during the season and give them a grade based on their performance. </p>
<p id="inwVGT">This week we will look at the second straight huge win by the Panthers, as they bested the <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> led <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Green Bay Packers</a> 31-24. The <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> improve to 10-4 and have put themselves in outstanding position to get a playoff berth. It wasn’t a banner day for the hog mollies like last week, but it was a darn good one overall.</p>
<h3 id="HzoyLt">Offensive Hog Mollies</h3>
<p id="rQNoKs">Yards per Carry<strong>: 4.0, season: 4.4 (T-7th, NFL)</strong></p>
<p id="l0oIPU">Yards per Play<strong>: 5.6, season: 5.2 (18th, NFL)</strong></p>
<p id="1gkMMV">Sacks allowed<strong>: 1, season: 31 (T-13th, NFL)</strong></p>
<p id="KI9Rw8">Third downs converted<strong>: 6 of 12 or 50%, season: 43% (6th, NFL)</strong></p>
<p id="8K4cyI">Rating: <strong>4 out of 5 Paralyzing Pork Chops</strong></p>
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<p id="xzhEOZ">First of all. . . I need to get this out of the way. I owe <span>Amini Silatolu</span> an apology. He was 100% serviceable on Sunday. He was awful at pulling, often falling down just before he was going to make contact with his target, but was pretty good in the screen game and actually did great on standard in-line blocks. I’m not ready to heat up any crow, the flaws are still there. Terrible technique, and he has lost his one positive attribute from his college scouting report that says “he is a great finisher,” but otherwise, he had a decent game.</p>
<p id="rPeOpU">Let’s get a brief sack report. . . only one on the day, though Cam did get hit a bit more than I would like.</p>
<ol><li id="oD0lPr">
<strong>5:58 Q3, CAR 28, 3rd and 8</strong> - Line gets pushed back significantly by a four man rush, Cam attempts to break the pocket through a hole between <span>Daryl Williams</span> and Amini Silatolu. The defensive tackle recognizes it and is able to slide off <span>Ryan Kalil</span> and get a hold of Cam.</li></ol>
<p id="nG8Q6G">Overall. . . <span>Cam Newton</span> is having fun again. It is by no coincidence that the offense has improved along with the hog mollies, as they have clearly made consistent steps forward as the season goes on. <span>Cam Newton</span> is one of the least sacked quarterbacks in the NFL over the last six weeks, a dramatic departure from being one of the top ten most sacked in the first four games or so. The running game has sky rocketed from bottom five in the NFL to top ten and climbing. Big ups to <span>Matt Kalil</span> really settling in, the interior trusting each other to perform whether with <span>Tyler Larsen</span> or Ryan Kalil at center, and <span>Daryl Williams</span> is having a season that should have landed him in the Pro Bowl.</p>
<h3 id="YkdjVD">Defensive Hog Mollies</h3>
<p id="lXYSXA">Yards per Carry<strong>: 6.3, season: 4.2 (T-16th, NFL)</strong></p>
<p id="bZf02N">Yards per Play<strong>: 6.0, season: 5.2 (15th, NFL)</strong></p>
<p id="AebdnF">Sacks given<strong>: 3, season: 43 (T-3rd, NFL)</strong></p>
<p id="JHTs8E">Third down allowed %<strong>: 4 of 11 or 36%, season: 37% (9th, NFL)</strong></p>
<p id="oDY1Aa">Rating: <strong>4 out of 5 Rampaging Hog Halberdiers</strong></p>
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<p id="HPq04m">Steve Wilks is getting a lot of credit and head coaching chatter thanks to his defense that is finally playing opportunistic in recent weeks, however, his blitz happy scheme is giving up chunk plays in the run game. The Green Bay Packers should not be able to tote the rock above six yards a carry, but they did. Part of this was Aaron Rodgers breaking the pocket and us not spying him. . . that’s fair, we didn’t expect so much scrambling, but their backs were able to break off long runs as well.</p>
<p id="fScVnC">The blitzing has been feast or famine when it comes to stopping the run. If we happen to call the right one, we often get a tackle for loss, if we don’t, it tends to be a ten yard gain or worse. This will hurt us if we end up seeing the <a href="https://www.canalstreetchronicles.com/">New Orleans Saints</a> again, mark my words.</p>
<p id="iVg5Yt">Pressuring the quarterback however has not been an issue. Each of Rodgers three interceptions were the direct result of pressure in the backfield, and in the second half we were putting him on the ground nicely. <span>Mario Addison</span> and <span>Julius Peppers</span> continue to be a terror, and deserve Pro Bowl recognition as alternates I would imagine.</p>
<h4 id="AZr0yg">Hog Molly of the Week: Daryl Williams</h4>
<p id="bGfzfN">I mentioned earlier that I felt Daryl Williams is having a pro bowl season. Unfortunately for him, name recognition as a lineman is hard to come by. With time, it will be known that he is becoming a great right tackle, for now, I’m totally content to observe him under the radar. Williams has responded as best as one could expect from the competition brought forth by rookie Taylor Moton. He is getting less and less help each week from chipping backs and tight ends to the point where we basically left him by himself against Green Bay. I can only credit him with one pressure as a result. His ability to lock down the right side allows a guy like <span>Greg Olsen</span> to get downfield faster, and that was the key factor in beating the Packers.</p>
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https://www.catscratchreader.com/2017/12/20/16794034/the-hog-molly-report-2017-week-15-carolina-panthers-vs-green-bay-packersErik Sommers2017-12-20T09:45:02-05:002017-12-20T09:45:02-05:004th and Short Podcast: The Panthers won and a lot of other stuff happened
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<figcaption>Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Brian, Brad, and Jon discuss the Panthers victory over the Packers and other news items</p> <p id="YIdsIt">Brian, Brad, and Jon do a podcast! Brad didn't get to pay much attention to the game, so Brian and Jon do most of the recapping of the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> victory over the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> and somehow get into a discussion about what a catch is. After that, they discuss <span>Thomas Davis</span>' hit on Davante Adams, the Twitter reactions to it, and how bad the NFL's two game suspension was. They also discuss the list of Panthers Pro Bowlers and who they think were the biggest snubs. The show wraps up with the biggest news from the weekend, Jerry Richardon's announcement of the future sale of the team. The guys share their takes on the matter and what they hope/expect to see from new ownership. </p>
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<p id="Lp1dbt"><a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/4th-and-short-catscratchreader/2017/12/20/the-panthers-won-and-a-lot-of-other-stuff-happened">Click here if the embed doesn’t work</a></p>
<p id="hqIBYH">(Outro song credit: Unity by Shinedown)</p>
https://www.catscratchreader.com/2017/12/20/16800632/4th-and-short-carolina-panthers-podcast-packers-recap-jerry-richardson-pro-bowl-thomas-davisJonathan DeLong2017-12-20T08:00:02-05:002017-12-20T08:00:02-05:00You watched film, huh? All-22 look at Aaron Rodgers’ three interceptions
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<p>The Panthers managed to pick off three Aaron Rodgers passes in their 31-24 win last Sunday. Let’s take a look at the film to find out how they did it.</p> <p id="A98bGs"><span>Aaron Rodgers</span> is going to be a first ballot hall of famer. The best way to slow him down is to apply reasonable pressure and play sound coverage. I was skeptical of sending aggressive blitzes due to his pocket mobility, scrambling skills, and arm strength. However, it seems that some of Steve Wilks’ blitz concepts allowed Carolina’s front seven to apply pressure. </p>
<p id="gje57h">I was less than thrilled with the idea of benching <span>Captain Munnerlyn</span>, but I have to give credit to <span>Colin Jones</span>. Jones had one of his best performances in a <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> jersey. The two second year cornerbacks are also gaining confidence. They’ve each recorded an interception in consecutive weeks. Let’s break down last week’s game film to see how Carolina was able to pick off Aaron Rodgers three times. </p>
<p id="XUMfi1"><strong>Interception #1</strong></p>
<p id="JCbATt">Offense Personnel: 11 (3 WR, 1TE, 1RB)</p>
<p id="15YWC0">Defensive Personnel: 4-2-5 Nickel</p>
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<p id="cwmB1a">Carolina is disguising a complex coverage. Before the snap, it looks like Carolina will be playing cover 2 with the cornerbacks playing off coverage. However, Wilks decides to send a slot blitz to the strong side of the offense’s formation. The coverage to the blitzing side has the safety drop down and pick up the tight end. The outside corner, <span>James Bradberry</span>, is playing “trap” coverage. </p>
<p id="xwBNMh">The other side of the field has more defined zone principles. <span>Kurt Coleman</span> transitions into the single high defender. <span>Thomas Davis</span> back pedals into the curl flat zone. <span>Daryl Worley</span> is the deep third defender to the sideline. </p>
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<p id="14RXgD">The <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> are running two out and up routes from the stacked wide receiver alignment to the near side. Worley, who is playing deep off coverage, looks to be beat. Rodgers doesn’t generate enough arm strength and the throw hangs in the air. </p>
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<p id="GWYJCe">The reason this interception occurs is due to the interior pressure. <span>Kyle Love</span> slants to the right, but the Packers offensive line fails to pick him up in time. Love is able to redirect Rodgers into the back of his left tackle. <span>Mario Addison</span> looks to be executing a speed rush, but he slows his rush down to contain Rodgers in the pocket. At this point, the Panthers defensive line does their job. The pressure leads to an inaccurate throw by a quarterback coming off a long term injury. </p>
<p id="AYmibZ"><strong>Interception #2 </strong></p>
<p id="pv0E7f">Offense personnel: 01 (4WR, 1TE, 0RB)</p>
<p id="W3CEmd">Defensive personnel: 4-2-5 Nickel</p>
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<p id="eYuPJI">Carolina shows a similar presnap look to the first interception. The outside corners and safeties all appear to be on a similar length across the field. This time, Wilks decides to send Thomas Davis on a corner blitz. </p>
<p id="zI7GcJ">The Panthers play quarters coverage on the back end, but the underneath coverage is where the interception occurs. Once Davis blitzes, <span>Luke Kuechly</span> pattern matches with the slot receiver to the right. Ditto for Colin Jones to the other side. I’ve been harping on the need to pattern match route concepts, but this was just a splendid job by Jones. </p>
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<p id="LSw5WY">The slot receiver, <span>Randall Cobb</span>, is running a vertical seam route. Jones does his job to bracket Cobb underneath, but there should have been safety help over the top by Kurt Coleman. </p>
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<p id="BO9OSk">The blitz is picked up by the Packers, but Rodgers doesn’t generate the arm strength to place this over the top of the defense. The Packers with an 80% Aaron Rodgers is still better than three quarters of the league, but his accuracy was an issue on Sunday. </p>
<p id="DXRDsw"><strong>Interception #3</strong></p>
<p id="47ZPlm">Offense Personnel: 11 (3WR, 1TE, 1RB)</p>
<p id="I0AxUm">Defense Personnel: 3-2-5 Dime</p>
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<p id="SYbwWF">The Panthers are in their Dime defensive personnel. They send a corner blitz to each side. On the back end, the secondary is playing quarters coverage. Kuechly is sugaring the line of scrimmage, but drops into the hook zone. <span>Jairus Byrd</span> is the curl flat defender. </p>
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<p id="PWLXYM">Green Bay has both of their outside receivers run a stop-n-go route. The slot receiver runs a drive route to the middle of the field. Rodgers targets Jordy Nelson. Nelson gets Bradberry to bite, but once again Rodgers under throws his target. </p>
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<p id="7GBVmU">First, check out Thomas Davis driving the running back straight into Rodgers’ lap. Rodgers evades the pressure, goes deep, but Bradberry shows off his recovery speed to intercept the throw. </p>
<p id="iEGt42">Rodgers certainly had issues with his arm strength, but the Panthers secondary has played at a high level the past two weeks. They have to continue to perform at this level if they expect to make noise in the postseason. </p>
https://www.catscratchreader.com/2017/12/20/16797596/oh-you-watched-film-huh-all-22-look-at-aaron-rodgers-three-interceptionsBillyM_912017-12-19T08:00:05-05:002017-12-19T08:00:05-05:00Panthers 31 Packers 24: Panthers Player of the Game Fanpoll
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<figcaption>Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Cast your vote for the Player of the Game in the Panthers’ win over the Packers.</p> <p id="CnFFjS"><a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> quarterback Cam Newton returns to the player of the game fan poll in epic fashion. Newton got his swag back and so did the Panthers offense. Yet he’s not the only player worthy of your vote this week. Check out this week’s options, starting with Newton himself of course.</p>
<h3 id="HuZQLI">
<em>QB </em><span><em>Cam Newton</em></span>
</h3>
<p id="YooVUT">Newton completed 20 of 31 passes for 242 yards with 4 tpuchdowns and zero interceptions for a 128.0 passer rating. Newton added 58 yards rushing on 14 carries. Newton even impressed PFF who rarely gives Newton such a high grade:</p>
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<p id="xia8vo"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnews%2Fpro-refocused-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F19%2F16793502%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24-panthers-player-of-the-game-fanpoll" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pro Football Focus</a></p>
<p id="0u6ZJY"> QB <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Fplayers%2Fcam-newton%2F6153&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F19%2F16793502%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24-panthers-player-of-the-game-fanpoll" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">CAM NEWTON</a>, <a href="https://grades.profootballfocus.com/#/ratings/positions/chooser">81.2</a> OVERALL GRADE</p>
<p id="oOtG9g">The Panthers’ offensive line did a pretty good job keeping pressure off Newton for the most part. He was kept clean on 77 percent of his dropbacks, and had an<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Felite%2Fstats%2Fquarterback%2Fkept-clean&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F19%2F16793502%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24-panthers-player-of-the-game-fanpoll" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> adjusted completion percentage of 76.0 along with three touchdowns on those plays</a>. Newton added 62 rushing yards on 11 designed runs and scrambles, picking up five first downs, two of which game on third down.</p>
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<p id="xbjHNy">Newton and the Panthers are a December team. Let’s keep this going.</p>
<h3 id="ksBogW">
<em>RB </em><span><em>Christian McCaffrey</em></span>
</h3>
<p id="jDQPm2">I think this is the kind of impact the Panthers envisioned when they drafted McCaffrey No. 8 overall. I was surprised to see McCaffrey not only get the start at running back but then to completely feature him for the entire first drive. I’m sure the Packers defense was just as surprised. McCaffrey got nine touches on that first drive and I’m sure that became the focus of the Packers defense going forward: stop McCaffrey. It didn’t go so well.</p>
<p id="G6dEYl">McCaffrey averaged 5.3 yards per carry for 63 yards on 12 carries. He also caught 6 of 7 targets for 73 yards and a touchdown. So that’s 136 yards on 18 touches and a touchdown. Nice game CMC!</p>
<h3 id="OFTPt1">
<em>WR </em><span><em>Damiere Byrd</em></span>
</h3>
<p id="RCdeUY">We’ve been asking for a wide receiver other than <span>Devin Funchess</span> to step up and on this day <span>Damiere Byrd</span> did. He may have only caught three passes for a skinny 25 yards but two of them were touchdowns. The first one was buttastic by the way! Byrd looks like the speed option the Panthers need on the outside.</p>
<h3 id="hhpRaM">
<em>TE </em><span><em>Greg Olsen</em></span>
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<p id="elQvld">After not looking so good in his first game back, Olsen looked like the guy we’ve known for many seasons against the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a>. Olsen lit it up for 116 yards on nine catches (12 targets) and a 30-yard touchdown. Thor is back and the NFC better take notice.</p>
<h3 id="GAgsgr">
<em>S </em><span><em>Kurt Coleman</em></span>
</h3>
<p id="PrTzQj">Coleman led the defense with 10 tackles and a pass defensed. He was key in run support. </p>
<h3 id="OEeOTm">
<em>CB </em><span><em>James Bradberry</em></span>
</h3>
<p id="6uFtxH">Bradberry was second on the team with 7 combined tackles, an interception and another pass knocked down. I have him here as an option over his mate <span>Daryl Worley</span> because Bradberry forced a fumble that ended the Packers last minute drive to try and tie the game. Nicely done B-berry!</p>
<h3 id="WCF96k">
<em>S </em><span><em>Colin Jones</em></span>
</h3>
<p id="VoTTAS">Jones hasn’t been the most reliable back-up in the secondary over his six seasons in Carolina but he stepped up on this day. Jones stepped into the nickel role (the game book actually listed him as a linebacker) and made the most of his opportunities. Hell, even PFF liked his game:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="GrdGlX">S <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Fplayers%2Fcolin-jones%2F6342&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F19%2F16793502%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24-panthers-player-of-the-game-fanpoll" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">COLIN JONES</a>, <a href="https://grades.profootballfocus.com/#/ratings/positions/chooser">87.0</a> OVERALL GRADE</p>
<p id="t0fGD6">Jones was all over the field and made a <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Felite%2Fstats%2Fsafety%2Fcoverage&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F19%2F16793502%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24-panthers-player-of-the-game-fanpoll" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">big impact whenever he was targeted in coverage</a>. Jones took advantage of an an <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Fplayers%2Faaron-rodgers%2F2241&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F19%2F16793502%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24-panthers-player-of-the-game-fanpoll" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Aaron Rodgers</a> under-throw up the seam, hauling in a key interception. Jones did a good job of eliminating run after the catch opportunities, allowing just five yards and two receptions on his four targets in coverage.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="9k3P3S">Maybe Jones should play in <span>Thomas Davis</span>’ place while he serves his suspension.</p>
<p id="P7Nq5b">So there are your player of the game candidates from yesterday’s win. Cast your vote now.</p>
<div id="rpzcU3"><div data-anthem-component="poll:812635"></div></div>
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https://www.catscratchreader.com/2017/12/19/16793502/nfl-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24-panthers-player-of-the-game-fanpollJaxon2017-12-18T13:00:06-05:002017-12-18T13:00:06-05:00Panthers secondary rose to the occasion in 31-24 win over Packers
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<img alt="Green Bay Packers v Carolina Panthers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qDIkWe7LziW7DavYSw7HtGZ9M64=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58024219/894357012.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>It was the consummate team effort by the defense</p> <p id="7UMa9p">In the lead up to this game we said two things had to happen for the <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> defense to contain <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> quarterback <span>Aaron Rodgers</span>. The secondary had to make plays and the defensive line had to get pressure. They did both in this critical victory.</p>
<p id="hrap7y">First consider that the top 4 tacklers for the Panthers defense all played in the secondary. Safety <span>Kurt Coleman</span> led the team with ten tackles and a pass knocked down. Cornerback <span>Daryl Worley</span> had seven combined tackles and another interception to go with the one he got last week. </p>
<p id="4ZzoCx">Cornerback <span>James Bradberry</span> was not be out done. He also had seven tackles and an interception, but also forced a critical fumble to end the Packers hopes of tying the game late in the 4th quarter. Safety <span>Mike Adams</span> added six tackles and he came up with the critical fumble recovery. Hell, even embattled nickel safety <span>Colin Jones</span> had an interception of Rodgers...a nifty one I might add. Cornerback <span>Captain Munnerlyn</span> might find himself inactive yet again next Sunday based on how well the secondary played without him.</p>
<p id="fykMtP">PFF agrees, giving Jones the highest grade on the day for the Panthers:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="7nc7j2"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnews%2Fpro-refocused-carolina-panthers-31-green-bay-packers-24&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F18%2F16791016%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-secondary-rose-to-the-occasion-in-31-24-win-over-green-bay-packers" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Refocused: Carolina Panthers 31, Green Bay Packers 24 | NFL Analysis | Pro Football Focus</a></p>
<p id="n1TdDZ">S COLIN JONES, 87.0 OVERALL GRADE</p>
<p id="KY66eS">Jones was all over the field and made a big impact whenever he was targeted in coverage. Jones took advantage of an an Aaron Rodgers under-throw up the seam, hauling in a key interception. Jones did a good job of eliminating run after the catch opportunities, allowing just five yards and two receptions on his four targets in coverage.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="tZf3hs">Cornerback James Bradberry was also given props for his performance:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="GANalg">CB <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Fplayers%2Fjames-bradberry%2F10696&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F18%2F16791016%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-secondary-rose-to-the-occasion-in-31-24-win-over-green-bay-packers" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">JAMES BRADBERRY</a>, <a href="https://grades.profootballfocus.com/#/ratings/positions/chooser">83.4</a> OVERALL GRADE</p>
<p id="H2J9eq">Bradberry was solid throughout the game, as he was <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Felite%2Fstats%2Fcornerback%2Fcoverage&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F18%2F16791016%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-secondary-rose-to-the-occasion-in-31-24-win-over-green-bay-packers" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">targeted 11 times and allowed just six catches for 61 yards</a> and also notched an interception. He made the key play of the game late in the fourth quarter with the Packers driving to tie it up, punching out a <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Fplayers%2Fgeronimo-allison%2F11141&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F18%2F16791016%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-secondary-rose-to-the-occasion-in-31-24-win-over-green-bay-packers" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gernomo Allison</a> reception with <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.profootballfocus.com%2Fnfl%2Fplayers%2Fmike-adams%2F1972&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.catscratchreader.com%2F2017%2F12%2F18%2F16791016%2Fnfl-carolina-panthers-secondary-rose-to-the-occasion-in-31-24-win-over-green-bay-packers" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mike Adams</a> coming over to recover the fumble and seal the game.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="kC1OUC">Here’s more from PFF Elite regarding the Panthers other young cornerback Daryl Worley:</p>
<blockquote><p id="1VRLJY">Cornerback Daryl Worley allowed a passer rating of 45.2. He gave up five catches on seven passes into his coverage for 39 yards and an interception. His overall grade of 78.5 ranked 27<sup>th</sup> among cornerbacks. </p></blockquote>
<p id="2aA6uj">More of a mixed bag, but Worley played well and made plays when he had the opportunity. Just as important he kept plays in front of him.</p>
<p id="KHI3QJ">Last but not least let’s give props to the pass rush that forced Rusty Rodgers into some bad throws:</p>
<blockquote><p id="OaEb7A">The Panthers had Rodgers rattled when they sent a blitz. On his 30 dropbacks against the blitz, Rodgers completed 18 of 28 passes for 205 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions with a passer rating of 58.5. On the 15 dropbacks the Panthers forced pressure, Rodgers completed four of 12 passes for 45 yards and two interceptions with a passer rating of 5.9.</p></blockquote>
<p id="8AhqfC">The defense wasn’t without it’s miscues but anytime you can pick off a future hall of famer three times in a game it’s an achievement. I don’t care how rusty he is. So congrats to defensive coordinator Steve Wilks, well done. </p>
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https://www.catscratchreader.com/2017/12/18/16791016/nfl-carolina-panthers-secondary-rose-to-the-occasion-in-31-24-win-over-green-bay-packersJaxon2017-12-18T10:00:05-05:002017-12-18T10:00:05-05:003 plays to love, 3 plays to hate from the Panthers’ 31-24 win over the Packers
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<img alt="Green Bay Packers v Carolina Panthers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/G6CUwGL4AgZqDHh-kEUwTl5Hfik=/0x70:2578x1789/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58018351/894362606.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>These key plays swung momentum and decided the Panthers 31-24 home win against the Green Bay Packers putting Carolina’s record at 10-4. </p> <p id="3MNAhb">Plays to Love, Plays to Hate (aka "P2L, P2H") looks at the most significant plays in swinging momentum and impacting the eventual outcome of the game. There is always plenty to hate about NFL officiating, so we will only focus on the plays on the field, not the refs.</p>
<h3 id="SJWUqI">Three plays to love</h3>
<p id="4DS5jd"><strong>3rd Quarter 7:28 – </strong><a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/"><strong>Panthers</strong></a><strong> 17, </strong><a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/"><strong>Packers</strong></a><strong> 14. Panthers ball 1st-and-Goal at GB 9 </strong></p>
<p id="180z8f"><em>The Situation</em>: After a <span>Colin Jones</span> interception, the Panthers had driven inside the 10 yard line, looking to build on their 17-14 lead. </p>
<p id="bntdVq"><em>The Play</em>: You’ve heard of the “Butt Fumble”. Call this the “Butt Touchdown.” <span>Cam Newton</span> fired a bullet to <span>Damiere Byrd</span> at the back of the end zone and Byrd jumped to make the catch. A defender got his hand on the ball causing Byrd to bobble the catch in the air, but he was able to reel it in as he fell to the ground. It appeared Byrd landed half in bounds, half out of bounds and the pass was called incomplete. But Ron Rivera challenged the play and from a different camera it looked like Byrd’s “cheeks”, as the announcers said, landed in bounds before the rest of his body rolled out. The review officials agreed, and Byrd was given the touchdown, thanks in large part to his small derriere. The great catch by the young receiver put the Panthers up 24-14 with tons of momentum. </p>
<p id="uM7jNc"><strong>4th Quarter 6:34 – Panthers 31, Packers 17. Packers ball 3rd-and-5 at CAR 21 </strong></p>
<p id="XRCLyA"><em>The Situation</em>: The Packers trailed by two touchdowns late in the game and had driven down to the Carolina 21, looking to cut the Panthers lead to seven. </p>
<p id="QSLjdV"><em>The Play</em>: On third down <span>Star Lotulelei</span> shed his blockers and pressured <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> up the middle as <span>Thomas Davis</span> came on an edge blitz. Star and TD combined to sack Rodgers for a nine yard loss to force a 4th-and-14. The Packers needed a touchdown in this situation and decided to go for it. On fourth down Julius Peppers flew past his blocker and immediately engulfed Rodgers for Carolina’s second straight sack. Peppers sack forced a turnover on downs, preserving Carolina’s 14-point lead late in the fourth quarter. Rodgers is hard to sack, and these two sacks were just clutch. </p>
<p id="4WpOlS"><strong>4th Quarter 1:55 – Panthers 31, Packers 24. Packers ball 1st-and-10 at CAR 38 </strong></p>
<p id="LCT0UP"><em>The Situation</em>: The Panthers had led 31-17 when they took possession with just 5:41 left in the game. It looked like the game was over, but Carolina’s offense went three-and-out, then the defense gave up a weak touchdown cutting the Panthers lead to 31-24 with 2:43 left. Then – because Carolina always struggles to close out games – the Packers recovered an onside kick. Green Bay had now driven to the Carolina 38 and was threatening to inexplicably tie the game at 31. </p>
<p id="SrCmNt"><em>The Play</em>: <span>James Bradberry</span> had <span>Geronimo Allison</span> in man coverage. Allison caught a pass for a 10-yard gain with Bradberry on his hip. Just as Allison took possession of the catch, Bradberry wound up and deliberately punched the ball loose as he made the tackle. <span>Mike Adams</span> recovered the fumble and Carolina’s offense was able to come out in victory formation to close out a huge win. </p>
<h3 id="6IpOkF">Three plays to hate</h3>
<p id="00dwhj"><strong>2nd Quarter 0:39 – Panthers 10, Packers 7. Packers ball 1st-and-10 at CAR 33 </strong></p>
<p id="X598cx"><em>The Situation</em>: Green Bay got the ball back in time for a two-minute drive to close out the first half. They started with good field position at the Green Bay 42 and had now driven down to the Carolina 33. </p>
<p id="IqRXuY"><em>The Play</em>: Carolina’s secondary appeared to be in man coverage with Kevon Seymour guarding Randall Cobb. Aaron Rodgers rolled right as Cobb and <span>Richard Rodgers</span> ran a crossing route. Seymour released Cobb to cover Rodgers, who was now double covered, and Cobb came wide open as he crossed the field. Cobb caught the pass and made an elusive run into the end zone, putting Green Bay up 14-10 at the half. </p>
<p id="igZlsd"><strong>4th Quarter 2:48 – Panthers 31, Packers 17. Packers ball 2nd-and-10 at CAR 24 </strong></p>
<p id="KRSB4a"><em>The Situation</em>: The Panthers led 31-17 when the Packers took possession with just 3:54 remaining in the game. A defensive stop here would put the game on ice. But as the Panthers often do, they went to a soft, less aggressive defense and immediately gave up 47 yards on three plays, plus a five yard defensive penalty, and Green Bay was suddenly at the Carolina 24. </p>
<p id="ySuCF0"><em>The Play</em>: The Panthers defense was confused as multiple players ran toward the sideline to get off the field before the Packers snapped the ball. Every Panthers defender looked out of position, discombobulated, and a step slow, and the Packers burned them for an easy 24-yard touchdown pass to Richard Rodgers to cut Carolina’s lead to 31-24. I’m pinning this “Play to Hate” on defensive coordinator Steve Wilks as the entire defensive series was just awful. </p>
<p id="yD3HIJ"><strong>4th Quarter 2:43 – Panthers 31, Packers 24. Green Bay Onside Kick. </strong></p>
<p id="jWGJjd"><em>The Situation</em>: After Green Bay scored to cut the lead to 31-24 just before the two-minute warning, the Packers last desperate hope was to convert an onside kick. </p>
<p id="E21wyj"><em>The Play</em>: The onside kick bounced right to Christian McCaffrey for what should have been an easy recovery to virtually end the game. But the ball to an odd hop as McCaffrey dove for the recovery, and the Panthers rookie left the ball on the ground and up for grabs. Green Bay made the recovery and were thus given another shot to tie the game, but James Bradberry’s strip allowed the Panthers to hang on. </p>
<h3 id="uwFM5Y">Closing it out and summing it up</h3>
<p id="6z7QPQ">After defeating the red-hot <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Vikings</a> last week, the Panthers spoiled the triumphant return of Aaron Rodgers on a Packers team fighting for their playoff lives. The Panthers are getting healthy and look downright dangerous. </p>
<p id="fVMhWd">The offense came to play and looks completely different with a healthy Greg Olsen doing his thing. Olsen reeled in nine receptions on 12 targets for 116 yards and a touchdown. Christian McCaffrey was excellent as he put up 63 rushing yards on 12 carries (5.3 YPC) and six receptions for 73 yards and a touchdown. Cam used his legs as a weapon once again, rushing for 58 yards on 14 carries, and the threat of Cam running continues to keep defenses honest and yield first downs. Solid blocking by the offensive line resulted in just one sack on 31 pass attempts. </p>
<p id="tMXQ1S">Defensively, the Panthers came up with three big interceptions by Daryl Worley, James Bradberry, and Colin Jones, taking advantage of a “rusty” Aaron Rodgers. The defense looked great until the weak-sauce series when they gave up the quick fourth quarter touchdown to Richard Rodgers late in the game.</p>
<p id="I0rT6b">The main concern from this game was the disappearance from the Panthers wide receivers. <span>Damiere Byrd</span> had an impactful game with two touchdowns, but he only had three total receptions for 25 yards. <span>Devin Funchess</span> had one reception on four targets for just 19 yards. <span>Kaelin Clay</span> had zero receptions on two targets. Carolina needs more consistency from their very thin receiving corps. </p>
<p id="RNMNob">The other issue is the inability of the defense to close out games late by allowing soft, quick touchdowns when playing with a lead. The second the Panthers go to prevent defense (or something close to it), they get shredded. </p>
<p id="iVsiBS">And what the heck is up with Captain Munnerlyn being a healthy scratch after getting upset over how he is being used? </p>
<p id="CS1qH1">Carolina is now 10-4 after huge back-to-back wins against the Vikings and Packers. They control their own destiny for a playoff berth as they prepare to face the <a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> next week. </p>
<h3 id="h7ABZW">“P2L, P2H” season leaders</h3>
<p id="bPN841"><em><strong>Plays to Love</strong></em></p>
<p id="fdY6nU">8 PTL – Cam Newton, <span>Devin Funchess</span></p>
<p id="ksdaUn">3 PTL – Christian McCaffrey, Julius Peppers, <span>Luke Kuechly</span>, <span>Mario Addison</span>, <span>Mike Adams</span>, Mike Shula</p>
<p id="bvfwxd">2 PTL – Captain Munnerlyn, <span>Daryl Williams</span>, Kawann Short, Kyle Love, Thomas Davis, Trai Turner, <span>Wes Horton</span></p>
<p id="MI272W">1 PTL – Andrew Norwell, <span>Charles Johnson</span>, Curtis Samuel, Damiere Byrd, Daryl Worley, <span>Ed Dickson</span>, Fozzy Whittaker, <span>Graham Gano</span>, James Bradberry, Jonathan Stewart, JULIO JONES (ATL), <span>Kaelin Clay</span>, <span>Matt Kalil</span>, Russell Shepard, <span>Shaq Thompson</span>, Star Lotulelei, Taylor Moton, <span>Tyler Larsen</span></p>
<p id="AvaVum"><em><strong>Plays to Hate</strong></em></p>
<p id="FiO1QJ">7 PTH – Cam Newton</p>
<p id="ieZn21">4 PTH – Jonathan Stewart, Luke Kuechly</p>
<p id="jZpx8G">3 PTH – Captain Munnerlyn, Kevon Seymour, Mike Adams, Ron Rivera</p>
<p id="U8IBTT">2 PTH – Christian McCaffrey, Curtis Samuel, Devin Funchess, <span>Kurt Coleman</span>, Shaq Thompson</p>
<p id="0ZVGPL">1 PTH - <span>Andrew Gachkar</span>, Daryl Williams, Daryl Worley, Graham Gano, James Bradberry, Kaelin Clay, Matt Kalil, Michael Palardy, Mike Shula, Russell Shepard, Steve Wilks, Thomas Davis, Trai Turner, Tyler Larsen</p>
<div id="kttPR7"><div data-anthem-component="poll:811092"></div></div>
https://www.catscratchreader.com/2017/12/18/16789128/nfl-carolina-panthers-green-bay-packers-3-plays-to-love-3-plays-to-hateD.A. Sweat2017-12-17T16:33:18-05:002017-12-17T16:33:18-05:00Panthers continue to roll with 31-24 win over Packers
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<img alt="NFL: Green Bay Packers at Carolina Panthers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/c3f_zp4XFWRRNkTVBM1vZV_wkyA=/0x0:4396x2931/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58015019/usa_today_10483812.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Panthers offense and defense did what they do best, and managed to fight off a late rally by the Packers.</p> <p id="u0ZdQa">It’s always a game when <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> comes to town. The <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> managed to grind out another win to put them at 10-4 as they continue their post season push.</p>
<h3 id="A54geX">Takeaways</h3>
<ul>
<li id="KopN0D">Let’s start with just that; TAKEAWAYS. Aaron Rodgers hasn’t thrown three picks in a game since 2009, and the Panthers got just that against one of the best of all time. <span>Daryl Worley</span> and <span>James Bradberry</span> got their second picks in as many weeks, and even <span>Colin Jones</span> got one filling in for <span>Captain Munnerlyn</span>.</li>
<li id="l4BWxv">Continuing with the defense, they got after Rodgers all day. They logged three total sacks, but the pressure caused issues for their offense. Well done to this defensive front that continues to prove it is one of the best in the league. </li>
<li id="FwPsEs">The Panthers offense continued to pound the football, this week with 151 total yards on the ground, led by Christian McCaffery with 63 yards and a 5.3 average yards per carry.</li>
<li id="wKgevu">
<span>Cam Newton</span> ran for an additional 58 yards, but his primary offensive strength came this week with his arm. He threw 4 TDs with a 128 QBR (whatever that actually means).</li>
<li id="Mo79Q8">
<span>Greg Olsen</span> returned in FORCE this week, with a team leading 9 receptions for 116 yards. Welcome back Thor!</li>
<li id="RIpPro">Also, we’ve been waiting for a second receiver to step up since <span>Curtis Samuel</span> went down. <span>Damiere Byrd</span> went OFF this week, with two receiving touchdonwns. House Bersin respects House Byrd.</li>
</ul>
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<p id="XPivKR"></p>
<p id="2yxHnL">The Panthers deferred the kickoff as they often do, giving the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> the ball to start the game. They ended up punting after one first down, giving the Panthers the ball on their own 15. The Panthers fed the ball to Christian McCaffery on their first drive, giving him the ball 9 times including a 7 yard touchdown reception. The Packers answered with a TD drive of their own, a 13 yard pass from Aaron Rodgers to <span>Davante Adams</span> for a score to end the first quarter.</p>
<p id="4AXvXP">The Panthers opened the 2nd driving into scoring range, only to be stifled at the 15 and forcing a <span>Graham Gano</span> field goal. The Packers then took over, but two plays later Rodgers threw a bad pass under pressure which Daryl Worley picked off, for his second in as many weeks. The Panthers unfortunately couldn’t capitalize, and went three and out for a punt. The Packers managed to drive close to field goal range, but after an incompletion and an attempt to draw the Panthers offsides, the Packers had to punt as well. The Panthers couldn’t get anything going, and had to punt as the two minute warning came along. The Packers managed to score before the end of the half, with a 33 yard catch and run by <span>Randall Cobb</span> to put them ahead 14-10.</p>
<p id="HRlTTh">The Panthers opened the second half with a nice drive, ending with a 30 yard touchdown reception by Greg Olsen in blown coverage. The rally continued, as Colin Jones intercepted an under thrown ball on the Packers second play of the ensuing drive. <span>Cam Newton</span> found <span>Damiere Byrd</span> for his first career touchdown on what will likely be a heavily scrutinized call, as Byrd managed to bounce his backside in bounds after bobbling the catch. The momentum continued with another interception, this time by James Bradberry. The Panthers couldn’t get any points this time, and were forced to punt with a 24-14 lead. The Packers started inching back, but got stopped inside the 10 and had to settle for a field goal. </p>
<p id="CzcT7h">The Panthers next drive lasted into the 4th quarter, and ended with a 13 yard touchdown grab by Damiere Byrd, his second of the game and giving the Panthers a 2 TD lead. The Packers tried to rally back, but a three sack effort by the defense forced a turnover on downs. The Panthers couldn’t kill much clock as the Packers burned all their timeouts. The Packers found a way to score with a touchdown pass to <span>Richard Rodgers</span> with more than two minutes to go. They then attempted an onside kick, and recovered after a bobble by Christian McCaffery. The Packers had a chance to tie with time to work with. They drove it down the field, however the Panthers defense responded with a strip of <span>Geronimo Allison</span> by James Bradberry, and a recovery by <span>Michael Adams</span> sealed the win.</p>
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<h3 id="YHsI1K">What’s Next</h3>
<p id="tLPSPC">The Panthers face the <a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/">Buccaneers</a> at home next week as they continue to push for the playoffs. They are coming off two major wins over playoff contenders, and have looked to solidify contender status themselves. There are so many different playoff scenarios, but if this team can keep winning they will be there, and they appear to be peaking at the right time.</p>
<p id="dEuXsy">KEEP. POUNDING!</p>
https://www.catscratchreader.com/2017/12/17/16787870/panthers-vs-packers-final-score-panthers-continue-to-roll-with-a-31-24-winBrian Beversluis2017-12-17T14:26:17-05:002017-12-17T14:26:17-05:00Panthers vs Packers: 2nd half open game thread
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<img alt="Green Bay Packers v Carolina Panthers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QDSEo1RRMu6pBwaOoLPqEo8P5jg=/0x0:2628x1752/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58014047/496328064.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Panthers 10 the Packers8 14 at halftime. </p> <p id="kfKwRh">The <a href="https://www.catscratchreader.com/">Panthers</a> 10 the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> 14 at the half. Use this space to continue talking about the action as it unfolds.</p>
<p id="AR2MA1">You know the drill. </p>
<p id="6bokCR"><em><strong>This is now an open thread!</strong></em></p>
https://www.catscratchreader.com/2017/12/17/16787052/panthers-vs-packers-2nd-half-open-game-threadBradley Smith