Clash of the Titans
December 3, 2008
I cannot for the life of me remember a more important or more exciting Carolina Panthers game.
A cold night in December, Monday Night Football, Two 9-3 teams playing for the division lead.
This is what we have all been waiting for, Panthers Fans. The time is now.
The keys to this game, as I see it, are as follows:
- Garcia must be contained in the pocket and not allowed to improvise. The Buccaneers have a mediocre passing offense (16th in the league), but good things tend to happen for them when enough time is given. Pressure must be applied up the middle, with containment coming from the defensive ends.
- The Carolina Offensive Line must hold the line of scrimmage. Defense, as always, is the hallmark of Tampa Bay, and it starts up front with their front four. If the Panthers can hold their own without constant help from the tight ends chipping, they will be in good shape.
- Time of Possession is crucial. The Carolina defense has been much maligned lately, but to their defense, they have been on the field too long. The offense must stay on the field and keep the defense rested. When fresh they are every bit as effective as the Tampa Bay defense. The Panthers must convert on third downs consistently if they want to stay in this game.
If all of these things happen, the Panthers will win this game. Bank on it.
