Seahawks versus Carolina: 5 questions about the Panthers

Happy Panthers surprises

12th Man Rising: What have been three of your happiest surprises about the Panthers in 2019?

Danny Jaillet: First, the consistent play of Christian McCaffrey has been one of my biggest surprises. He was a workhorse last year and I wasn’t sure if he could keep up that same level of play in 2019. He certainly has, and he’s been one of the few bright spots of the Carolina Panthers offense. It feels like he is a robot at times with just how much he can perform at a high-level week in and week out. DJ Moore has been another great surprise.

I wasn’t too sure how the second-year player would do, but he has not suffered a sophomore slump. Particularly with Kyle Allen under center, his production has been extremely consistent and explosive. He has been an asset. Lastly, Eric Reid has played at a high level. After coming in mid-season, Reid has settled and comfortably to this defense. Sure, he has had some bad games, but for the most part, he brings a complete effort every week.

Seahawks Chris Carson versus Panthers defense

12th Man Rising: The Panthers rush defense has not been good but the team is not without top-end talent. What has been the issue there and what does Carolina do to stop Chris Carson and company?

Danny Jaillet: I can’t really pinpoint an issue. It’s been very strange to see them struggle so much. The defensive playcalling has not been at its best, and that would fall on Ron Rivera, since he took over the playcalling on that side of the football. Whether it is missed assignments, not filling in the proper gaps, and poor tackling, this team has made it very easy for running backs to succeed. That is certainly not ideal, as they do have some top-end talent as you mentioned.

In order to stop Chris Carson, the defense has to focus on filling their gaps. Not only that, they have to continue to tackle well. Carson’s not the type of player that you can give second chances to. If that happens, you’re in trouble.