PFF training camp preview

[top dawg]

It's one of those times of year where most of the sports media is saying the same thing about training camp. PFF acknowledges that CB and WR will be keenly watched battles. They also mention the the battle to back up Olsen, which I suppose is a little new. Though Manhertz is the presumptive winner (according to them), let me say that Ian Thomas is largely battling himself and it's just a matter of time. 

Like most people who really understand the team they recognize that the battle for LG is "pivotal," and that the quality of the entire O-line could be at stake depending upon its outcome.

"The poor play in pass protection was particularly evident in tackles Matt Kalil and Daryl Williams, who combined to allow 10 sacks, 11 hits and 58 hurries. Williams and Kalil finished 33rd and 52nd in pass-blocking efficiency, respectively. Norwell is no longer the bandage for their play, which means whoever takes over the left guard position among Jeremiah Sirles, Taylor Moton, Tyler Larsen, Amini Silatolu and a handful of rookies will need to exceed expectations.

"It would appear Sirles is the favorite for the job, and his numbers at left guard are slightly more promising than his ones at right tackle. While only 34.5 percent of his career snaps have come at left guard, he spent most of his 2017 snaps at the position for the Vikings and didn’t allow a sack. He certainly isn’t the most polished offensive lineman, but for now he appears to have the leg up in what will be the most pivotal battle of Panthers training camp."

 

As you can see, PFF does provide some stats which provides some context and maybe sets the table for a little more drama, but one must still keep perspective. For example: Sirles did not allow a sack in 2017 (which is really good to know), but he played 344 snaps---roughly 30 percent of the Vikings' total snaps. Even still, Sirles apparently is not just dog meat like some have insinuated by their dismissive tones. If he can at least hold his own, then perhaps Moton can battle with Kalil. If not  then perhaps Moton can outplay Sirles and become the "bandage" that holds the line together on the left side. Either way, it's probably the perceived weakest link on the team. 

As an aside, I've heard some express that WR is another weak link. It certainly doesn't sound like PFF thinks this, as it basically gives reason for optimism, the least of which is D.J. Moore. We've all heard about Moore's YAC ability, and PFF acknowledges Moore's skills last season as well.

 

"Moore was targeted no less than six times in a game in 2017, and only four NCAA receivers forced more missed tackles than he did last season."

 

Again, just to add a little perspective, Moore was used heavily, but he still broke tackles like the best of them. Enough speculation, though! The training camo previews will turn to views. We're on the eve of seeing what's what. 

https://www.profootballfocus.com/news/pro-pff-training-camp-preview-panthers

[GRWatcher]

A link?

[top dawg]

16 minutes ago, GRWatcher said:

A link?

Gotcha!

[t96]

At TE won’t Manhertz be out well into the season? Pretty sure Thomas is #2 by default now, barring some signing like Barnidge or Gates (if he would play anywhere other than Chargers?), etc...

[TheSpecialJuan]

good stuff 

[KB_fan]

So, PFF attack Daryl Williams for his poor play at tackle, yet PFF also rated him one of the very top tackles in the league last year.

Which is it?!?!

[mc52beast]

2018 and we’re still talking about how questionable the o-line is