Panthers getting no respect
December 6, 2008
Note to the Carolina Panthers Players: You have been written off.
In the eyes of the national media, this Monday night game has already been played, and it was an easy win for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Sports Illustrated, for example, calls it an easy pick.
Easy pick. Tampa locks down Smith, probably with the physical Ronde Barber; and the combination of interior guys like Jovan Haye and Chris Hovan paired with Brooks and Barrett Ruud coming from the ‘backer spots shuts down the Carolina run game, if only for one game. With a banged up backfield, I expect Garcia to attempt his fair share of shots downfield, but with Peppers on his trail he’ll have his best luck working the short stuff to a talented set of tight ends. Tampa scores twice in the air and wins 20-10.
That’s right guys, despite your 9-3 record, no one thinks you are a serious contender. They call you soft. They say Peppers is old. They make no mention of your defense while they shower the Tampa Bay defense with adoration and praise. They assume Steve Smith is your only weapon, despite Deangelo Williams having a pro bowl calliber year.
In short, they do not respect you.
You have the unique opportunity Monday night on a national stage to make a clear and direct statement. Win the game in convincing fashion and maybe, just maybe, the national media will have the clarity to call a 10-3 team pretty damn good.
Go get ‘em.
