This week’s NFL action begins on Thursday Night when the New Orleans Saints take on the Carolina Panthers. This is a must win for both teams. Especially if either team wants to keep its small playoff hopes alive. For the Carolina Panthers, the importance is two-fold; playoffs and respect. How do you feel about the Panthers in week 11? Are you buying or selling the Carolina Panthers?
Over the past three weeks, the Carolina Panthers have looked like the team that many thought they would look like. They played solid defense and high powered offense. And if not for giving up 17 unanswered points in the 4th quarter they would be looking at a three-game winning streak. Can they avoid a complete meltdown two weeks in a row?
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The defense of the Carolina Panthers has been less than stellar in 2016. Is it because of the loss of Josh Norman? Is there any reason why they have not had the performances of 2015? They are currently ranked 15th overall, 2nd against the run, and 25th against the pass. Teams are finding it very easy to pass on the Panthers this season. I expect this trend to continue on Thursday night with Drew Brees coming to town.
The offense of the Carolina Panthers was expected to be better in 2016. After all, they were getting their big playmaker back in Kelvin Benjamin. That simply has not been the case. They lack in a run game. This does not help their unstable offensive line. Teams have keyed in on Cam Newton. He has taken a beating thus far in 2016. That could change on Thursday. The Saints are the 32nd ranked pass defense. The last time these two teams played it was a 41-38 shootout with Carolina coming out on top.
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The Carolina Panthers are a desperate team. Desperation usually leads to the cornered team playing well. I could see this game as another shootout. However, I had this as a split going into the season. Carolina Panthers lose this shootout. I am selling the Carolina Panthers in week 11.