Greg Olsen

A Look Ahead: Packers

Game Breakdowns, Prime Cuts with Norris

Carolina Panthers
at
Green Bay Packers
4:25

I predicted a 30-17 win for Carolina, but I was off by 3. I’ll try to be better this time. Carolina got back to their winning ways against Tennessee, and CMC continues his historic pace. There are still things that need to be improved, but overall this was a good team win. Carolina won’t have much time to celebrate, as they have to get ready for Green Bay. Here is a look ahead to the Packers:

Green Bay Packers

Head Coach

Matt LaFleur

Offensive Coordinator 

Nathan Hackett

Defensive Coordinator 

Mike Pettine

Key Acquisitions 

S Adrian Amos

LB Preston Smith

LB Za’darius Smith

Key Losses

DL Mike Daniels

LB Nick Perry

LB Clay Matthews

WR Randall Cobb

Key Draft Picks

DL Rashan Gary

S Darnell Savage Jr.

G/C Elgton Jenkins

The Packers got some quality players in free agency and had a good draft, so this will be a tough opponent. Green Bay sits atop of the NFC North with a record of 7-2 and they just took a beating from the Chargers last Sunday, so they will be gunning for the Panthers.

Carolina Panthers

Head Coach

Ron Rivera

Offensive Coordinator

Norv Turner

Defensive Coordinator

Eric Washington

Key Acquisitions

C Matt Paradis

LB Bruce Irvin

CB Javien Elliott

WR Chris Hogan

DT Gerald McCoy

S Tre Boston

Key Losses

LB Thomas Davis

C Ryan Kalil

DE Julius Peppers

Key Draft Picks

DE Brian Burns

OT Greg Little

OT Dennis Daley

It looked as though Kyle Allen was going to let the 49er game affect him, as he was struggling in the first half. Then he settled down and started making good throws. Dennis Daley is becoming an absolute stud at left tackle, which is great considering Greg Little is still in the concussion protocol. Christian McCaffrey and the Carolina defense continue their dominance.

2019 Team Stats

Panthers

Packers
22nd– 339.8 yds/gm
Total Offense
17th– 352.4 yds/gm
25th- 206.9 yds/gm
Pass Offense
12th– 257.1 yds/gm
6th– 132.9 yds/gm
Rush Offense
22nd– 95.3 yds/gm
10th– 26.1 ppg
Scoring Offense
13th– 25.1 ppg
19th– 360.4 yds/gm
Total Defense
27th– 382.9 yds/gm
9th– 227.0 yds/gm
Pass Defense
21st– 255.2 yds/gm
26th– 133.4 yds/gm
Rush Defense
24th– 127.7 yds/gm
21st– 25.5 ppg
Points Allowed
11th– 21.0 ppg

 

Things to Watch

Carolina

Kyle Allen started off a bit shaky, but he brushed it off and played well. He made some good throws on Sunday and looked more comfortable in the pocket. Green Bay’s defense isn’t nearly as good as Tennessee’s, but it’ll still be a test to keep pace with Aaron Rodgers. The offensive line improved from the 49er game, as Trai Turner and Dennis Daley were healthier this week. Daley has been an absolute steal in the draft and it seems like Carolina finally has depth on the offensive line. The game plan will likely be run heavy, but Allen will have to make some key throws on third down, which he should be able to do as long as he gets protection. Green Bay’s pass rush can be problematic. However, the Packers have trouble in man coverage, so Carolina will look to exploit it.

Christian McCaffrey continued to carry the offense on his back, as he had 166 total yards and 3 touchdowns. It will be run heavy again, as the Green Bay run defense has struggled almost as bad as Carolina’s. The Chargers ran for 159 yards on the Packers last week, so McCaffrey should have another big day. Carolina needs to play ahead, so McCaffrey and company would like to strike early. The best running back in the game should dominate this Green Bay defense that ranks 24th in the league against the run. The Packers are also at the bottom of the league in plays of 40 or more yards allowed, and Carolina leads the league in plays of 50 or more yards gained. So, this is a nice matchup for the Panthers. Don’t worry about CMC in the cold. He’s from Colorado and he’s played a lot of cold weather games. His dad, Ed McCaffrey wouldn’t let him wear sleeves in those games.

The Carolina receivers used Steve Smith’s criticism as motivation and absolutely dominated Sunday. Both Moore and Samuel ran good routes and made jaw dropping catches and runs after catch. Look for the receivers to build on their performance from last Sunday against a Green Bay defense that ranks 21st against the pass. Although, it remains to be seen how much passing will actually go on in the weather conditions of Green Bay. Look for Allen to use Olsen more, as the Packers have had problems covering tight ends the last 3 weeks (TE’s combined for 18 catches, 273 yards and 3 touchdowns).

Carolina added Donte Moncrief to the wide receiver room this week, and while he has had some issues this year with drops, the hope is that reuniting him with former receiver’s coach Jim Hostler will help. Hostler was Moncrief’s coach in Indianapolis when Moncrief had his best year as a pro, as he had 64 catches for 733 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2015. Let’s remember that Ted Ginn Jr. came to Carolina after having 2 catches for 1 yard the previous year for the 49ers and he came in and had three of his best years in the league for the Panthers in a four year period.

The Carolina defense is going to have their hands full with Aaron Jones and Aaron Rodgers. The game will likely be a heavy dose of running and defensive pressure. The Panthers defense is still pretty bad at stopping the run, as they are 26th in the league. On Wednesday, Carolina added Wes Horton, who should help immediately in stopping the run. Brian Burns played the most snaps of any defensive end/linebacker due to Mario Addison not playing, but he was still favoring his injured wrist at times. Addison will play this week, so that will elevate the defensive effort against Green Bay. In order to have a shot against the Packers, Carolina needs to pressure Rodgers early and often. Carolina also needs to contain Aaron Jones, which will be a task. Hopefully, James Bradberry will be good to go on Sunday because they’re going to need him to cover Devante Adams. Look for a lot of disguised blitzes and coverages to try and confuse Rodgers. One thing is for sure, the Packers will be throwing everything they have at Carolina this Sunday, especially after getting beat down by the Chargers last week.

Green Bay Packers

Aaron Rodgers had an uncharacteristically bad game last Sunday against the Chargers, as he only threw for 161 yards and 1 touchdown. He’d like to have a bounce back game this week against the Panthers, but it could be a tough test. Rodgers got Devante Adams back last week, so he will be giving the Panthers his best. His offensive tackles are two of the best in the league, although they struggled last week. They’ll look to bounce back on Sunday.

Aaron Jones might be 16th in rushing yards, but he can be a real problem for defenses. He’s a shifty, young running back who can run between the tackles. Jones is also used a lot in the passing game, which could give the Panthers problems. Carolina’s run defense is near the bottom of the league, so Jones could have a really big day. The Packers also have another dynamic running back in Jamaal Williams, who will likely split carries with Jones to give him a break. If Carolina wants to win this game, they’re going to need to stop these two backs. Look for Green Bay to use a lot of misdirection plays, as this seems to be the way to confuse the Panthers.

The Packers got Devante Adams back last week, but he wasn’t at 100%. Adams will be ready to go after last week’s embarrassment. Green Bay has some nice role players behind Adams, but this is probably Rodgers’ worst receiving corps of his career. Marquez Valdes-Scantling has a lot of potential, but he is only averaging 2.4 catches per game. If the Packers get the opportunity, look for them to try and beat the Panthers deep. There have been a dozen plays this year where a receiver has gotten behind the Panther secondary, but the throw was off target. Rodgers is rarely off target on those balls, so they will take some shots.

Green Bay’s defense isn’t as good as San Francisco or Tennessee, as they are 26th in the league. However, their pass rush shouldn’t be overlooked. Za’darius Smith and Preston Smith both have over 8 sacks each, so Allen will be pressured on Sunday. The Packers are top five in getting pressure on the quarterback without blitzing. The Packers run a lot of dime and nickel formations, but they have trouble stopping the run, so McCaffrey should do well against them.

Keys to a Carolina Victory

• Run the ball early and often.

• Pressure Rodgers, but don’t let him out of the pocket.

• Protect the ball.

• Contain Aaron Jones.

• Maintain gap discipline on defense.

• Involve Greg Olsen. Packers have had trouble stopping the tight ends in recent weeks.

• Utilize McCaffrey and Bonnafon (when needed) in the passing game.

• Contain the Smiths. While they have a combined 16.5 sacks, the rest of the team only has 5.5 combined. So if Carolina can somehow contain those two players, Allen should have some time in the pocket.

Key Matchups

• McCaffrey VS Packers defensive line

• Olsen VS Packers linebackers

• Samuel/Moore VS Packers secondary

• Carolina’s pass rush VS Rodgers

• Aaron Jones VS Carolina’s defensive line

• Carolina offensive line VS Green Bay’s defensive line

Injury Report

Carolina

Greg Little OUT

Vernon Butler QUESTIONABLE

James Bradberry QUESTIONABLE

Green Bay

Jaire Alexander QUESTIONABLE

Adrian Amos QUESTIONABLE

Both teams come into Sunday relatively healthy. Hopefully James Bradberry can play, as he is needed to try and contain Devante Adams.

Prediction

If Carolina wants to make a playoff run, this is a game they need to win. The back half of the schedule is going to be tough, with Seattle, Green Bay, Indianapolis and the Saints (twice) ahead. All things considered, the Panthers will likely need at least 11 wins to make the playoffs, so this is an important game. It’s also a game that they can win. It will be a hard fought battle, but Carolina will come away victorious, with a score of 28-24. Christian McCaffrey will have 195 total yards and 2 total touchdowns. Greg Olsen will contribute 75 yards and a touchdown as well. The Panthers’ defense will sack Aaron Rodgers, behind a struggling offensive line, 6 times. #KeepPounding

 

A Look Ahead: 49ers

Game Breakdowns, Prime Cuts with Norris

Panthers
VS
49ers
Game Time: 4:05

Who else is glad that the bye week is over? That was a brutal week without Panther football. It’s time for Carolina to march into San Francisco to play the undefeated 49ers. Kyle Allen looks to extend his winning streak to 6-0 for his career. Will he be able to withstand the Niners stout defense? Here’s a look ahead to the 49ers:

San Francisco 49ers

Head Coach/Offensive Coordinator

Kyle Shanahan

Defensive Coordinator 

Robert Saleh

Key Acquisitions 

DE Dee Ford (via trade)

LB Kwon Alexander

RB Tevin Coleman

WR Emmanuel Sanders (via trade)

Key Losses

CB Jason Varrett (IR)

WR Pierre Garçon

Key Draft Picks

DE Nick Bosa

WR Deebo Samuel

San Francisco has remained unbeaten through the first seven weeks, although they barely beat Washington last week. Granted, they played in really sloppy conditions. Their defense, led by Dee Ford and rookie, Nick Bosa, has dominated teams, as they only allow an average of 10.7 points per game. This defense will be a test for the Panthers, as this will be the hardest defense they’ve faced all season. Carolina will utilize McCaffrey in both the running game and passing game and try to keep the Niners defense guessing.

Carolina Panthers

Head Coach

Ron Rivera

Offensive Coordinator

Norv Turner

Defensive Coordinator

Eric Washington

Key Acquisitions

C Matt Paradis

LB Bruce Irvin

CB Javien Elliott

WR Chris Hogan

DT Gerald McCoy

S Tre Boston

Key Losses

WR Chris Hogan (IR with designation to return)

DL Kawann Short (IR)

QB Cam Newton (Foot injury)

LB Thomas Davis

C Ryan Kalil

DE Julius Peppers

Key Draft Picks

DE Brian Burns

OT Greg Little

OT Dennis Daley

2019 Team Stats

Panthers

49ers
20th– 353.0 yds/gm
Total Offense
7th– 387.2 yds/gm
22nd– 223.5 yds/gm
Pass Offense
25th– 214.5 yds/gm
9th– 129.5 yds/gm
Rush Offense
2nd– 172.7 yds/gm
5th– 27.7 yds/gm
Scoring Offense
11th– 26.0 yds/gm
12th– 344.0 yds/gm
Total Defense
2nd– 223.5 yds/gm
7th– 225.0 yds/gm
Pass Defense
1st– 133.5 yds/gm
23rd– 119.0 yds/gm
Rush Defense
8th– 90.0 yds/gm
15th– 22.2 ppg
Points Allowed
2nd– 10.7 ppg

Things to Watch

Carolina Panthers

Ok, Kyle….We see you. This was Allen’s first game with no fumbles and he was looking more comfortable in the pocket. He still has some work to do, but he’s still a young quarterback making the most out of his opportunity. Allen is doing exactly what Carolina was hoping he’d do if Cam got hurt. The 49ers will be a huge test for Allen, who was named the starter on Monday since Cam Newton hasn’t started practicing yet (As Expected). San Francisco has one of the best defenses in the league right now. Make no mistake about it, their defense will be gunning for Allen. Hopefully the offensive line will continue to give him the time he needs to hit his open targets. Norv Turner will likely call a lot of quick passes and three step drops against this defense. He will probably enlist the help of Olsen and Manhertz for blocking as well.

Last week Christian McCaffrey was shut down on the ground, but that didn’t stop him from scoring twice. He will once again be a key part of this offense Sunday, as the 49ers allow an average of 90 yards rushing per game. The 49ers haven’t played a running back of McCaffrey’s caliber yet and it will be interesting to see how they handle him. Especially with this Panthers defense playing as well as they are. If this defensive unit continues its play and gives Allen and McCaffrey good field position, look for McCaffrey to handle the load and be productive. The 49ers seem to play with high pad levels, so McCaffrey should be able to have some success on the ground.

In London, DJ Moore, Curtis Samuel and Greg Olsen all had fairly productive games. Allen may have a little more trouble against this stout defense, but these three receivers plus McCaffrey will be his main targets when he throws. It’s likely that Moore will run a lot of shorter routes, since San Francisco will be pressuring Allen. Plus, he can get a lot of yards after the catch. McCaffrey will be getting a lot of work in the passing game as well. Also, look for Ian Thomas to be involved in more snaps this Sunday. Rivera said that the absence of Thomas was due to his injury putting him behind. Rumors have it, that the staff haven’t liked what they’ve seen in his blocking. Coach Rivera started in a press conference that Thomas has improved and has earned more reps.

Carolina’s defense has been playing at a high level for the past 4 games and looks to keep it going against San Francisco. The Carolina defense is second in the league in quarterback hits, with 50 (NE is first with 51), but Carolina has played one less game than the rest of the top six. That’s something that the Panthers need to continue against San Francisco, as Jimmy Garoppolo seems to struggle when being pressured. Garoppolo has thrown 6 interceptions, has been sacked 8 times and fumbled 5 times. In order for Carolina to win this game, the defense needs to cause Jimmy G to make some mistakes and cause some turnovers. The formula Carolina has used in the past four games is to dominate on defense and give Allen great field position.

Carolina also needs to limit San Francisco’s run game, as they are second in the league in rushing yards per game (172.7 per game). Carolina has struggled to stop the run this year, but hopefully they will learn to stop the run on the way to the quarterback. Carolina leads the league in sacks with 28 (in one less game than the top six) and they’re second in takeaways with 15. While both of San Francisco’s offensive tackles will likely be out again this week, the players filling in (Justin Skule and Daniel Brunskill) have done well. However, they haven’t played a defense like Carolina so far. Hopefully, Carolina has another 7 sack and 7 takeaway game and beat the Niners.

San Francisco 49ers

Jimmy Garoppolo is finally healthy for the 49ers and has the team undefeated through the first six games. He isn’t carrying the team, but he’s being a game manager. Much like Carolina, Garoppolo’s defense puts him and the offense in position to win. Having a good running game helps, but Garoppolo makes the necessary throws when he needs to. If he wants to take his team to 7-0, he will need to limit his mistakes against this opportunistic Carolina defense. While both offensive tackles have been out for consecutive weeks, the backups have played pretty well in their absence. They will have a test on Sunday, as they haven’t played a defense as dominant as Carolina.

San Francisco has a solid running back trio in Matt Breida, Tevin Coleman and Raheem Mostert. This will be a test for Carolina’s 23rd ranked rush defense. This is a very dynamic backfield that can be utilized in both the running and passing game. The 49ers rank second in rushing and will look to keep that going this Sunday.

The main target in San Francisco is tight end, George Kittle. Kittle leads the team with 376 receiving yards. The receiving room consists of Marquise Goodwin (181 yards), Deebo Samuel (168 yards), Kendrick Bourne (139 yards) and Richie James (108 yards). However, there’s a new guy in town, as the 49ers have traded for Emmanuel Sanders this week. Sanders will give the team a proven target that is sure to enhance the offense, if Garoppolo has time to throw. With any luck, Carolina will put more pressure on Garoppolo than he is used to.

The 49er defense is stout. They have five first rounders on the defensive line and they are playing lights out. This will be a tough test for Kyle Allen and the Panthers’ offensive line. The defense has 20 sacks and 35 quarterback pressures. Look for the defense to blitz at a higher rate to get Allen to make mistakes. The secondary of San Francisco is also one of the best in the league, but their pass rush is one of the main reasons they’ve been successful.

Keys to a Carolina Victory

• Run McCaffrey early and often (as always). The 49ers rank 8th in rush defense, so he will have his work cut out for him. CMC is a volume runner, which means the more you give it to him, the better he gets.

• Protect Kyle Allen. The line needs to give Allen time to find his target. The San Francisco defensive line will be coming for him.

• Moore and company need to get separation. Continue to mix things up with Samuel in the run game.

• Pressure Garoppolo. He makes mistakes when he’s pressured and doesn’t like to leave the pocket. He rarely extends plays with his legs. Pressuring him will shake his confidence.

• Bradberry and the Panthers defense need to continue their solid play, as the 49ers are stacked with speedy receivers. The (likely) return of Donte Jackson will help with that.

• Defense needs to cause several turnovers to give Allen less field to work with. Playing against a stacked defense could make it hard on Allen and the offense, but good field position will make things easier.

• Protect the ball! If the 49ers defense sacks Allen, he needs to hold onto the ball. He did that last week, so hopefully he continues to get better.

Key Matchups

• Christian McCaffrey VS 49ers Defensive Line

• DJ Moore/Curtis Samuel VS Richard Sherman/Ahkello Witherspoon

• Emmanuel Sanders/Marquise Goodwin VS James Bradberry

• Greg Olsen VS Kwon Alexander

• George Kittle VS Luke Kuechly

• 49ers Running Back Trio VS Carolina Defensive Line

Injury Report

Carolina Panthers

Carolina should get Trai Turner and Donte Jackson back this week and it comes at a good time. Allen will need all the protection he can get in this game. Cam is still out this week, but he has been practicing on the side with trainers, as he continues the rehab process. Greg Little is still in concussion protocol, but is progressing nicely. The team will be bringing him along slowly since this is his second concussion this year. The emergence of sixth round pick, Dennis Daley, has eased the effects of losing the second round tackle.

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers will be without their starting right tackle, Mike McGlinchey, and Full Back Kyle Juszczyk. They will likely be without their starting left tackle, Joe Staley, again also. The backup tackles have played well in Staley and McGlinchey’s absence, but Carolina’s defense is unlike any they’ve faced.

Prediction

This will be a tough match against an undefeated team, but in reality, the 49ers haven’t played anyone with a winning record. So, this will be a huge test for them, too. Essentially, these two teams are almost mirrored from each other. Dominating defense, good running game, game manager quarterback and solid offensive line. This will be a defensive battle (obviously) and will likely be a somewhat low scoring game. Carolina is currently averaging 27.7 points per game, but San Francisco is allowing 10.7 points per game. Norv Turner having two weeks to prepare makes a difference, as Carolina wins on the road, 24-17. Led by Christian McCaffrey and a great defensive effort, San Francisco is no longer unbeaten. #KeepPounding

Cam Newton Injury Makes Case to Keep Starters Out of Preseason

Preseason, Prime Cuts with Norris

So…..Here we are again. Another preseason game, another injury. Cam Newton has a left ankle injury that he sustained late in the first quarter. Cam got hurt on a coverage sack while scrambling to try and keep the play alive. When Cam got up limping, you could almost hear every Panther fan’s heart sink. It begs the question, should franchise players play in the preseason?

For the most part, all players get an opportunity to play in these preseason games, including starters. The starters generally play no more than a half in any preseason game. It seems like more and more starting caliber players get hurt each year in preseason action. Yes, it’s good for starters to play and become a cohesive unit. However, it isn’t necessary to put your franchise players in harm’s way.

Yes, injuries happen. Especially in a gladiator sport such as football. If a player is going to get hurt, it should be in a game that means something. The risk far outweighs the reward.

Cam Newton and Greg Olsen are coming off of injuries that required surgery. These two players have worked hard to get healthy enough to play for the Panthers and shouldn’t be in a meaningless game such as this. These players are professionals and will be ready for the regular season no matter what. The preseason should be designated for rookies and players trying to make the team. The franchise players for NFL teams shouldn’t be playing in games that mean nothing.

Rush Review: Training Camp Day #13

Camp Wofford

#1. Cam Newton was giving practice off as a scheduled rest day. Player missing practice due to injury: TE Ian Thomas (rib contusion) and C Tyler Larsen (unknown). Players returning to practice from injury: DT Kawann Short (shin kicked) and RB Jordan Scarlett (back).

#2. The little league softball team that was coached by TE Greg Olsen was the special guests allowed to be on the sidelines today.  The faces these kids had as they interacted with the players were a joy to watch. There was also several members of the military here as well. They spoke with players like LB Luke Kuechly, RB Christian McCaffrey and LB Shaq Thompson during special teams drills.

#3. The team came out in shells again for practice. It was said on yesterday that today’s practice was going to be full pads. With Tuesday and Wednesday being joint practices with the Buffalo Bills it will be full pads worn for the final two days at Camp Wofford.

#4. Players who got first team reps: QB Kyle Allen, S Tre Boston and CB Javien Elliott (small nickel CB). Players who got 2nd team reps: OL Dennis Daley (LG), OT Greg Little (LT) and DB Ross Cockrell (outside CB). WR Jaydon Hickens, WR Rashad Ross. WR Terry Godwin and WR Chris Hogan did all the punt return work.

#5. These are the highlights from team drills: CB James Bradberry got a pass deflection in the end zone on a pass intended for WR DJ Moore thrown by Allen. Olsen caught a TD pass from Allen during red zone period. WR Curtis Samuel had a huge catch on a deep ball over CB Javien Elliott from a pass by Allen. Moore gets revenge on Bradberry by making an awesome catch on the sideline that included him tip toeing both feet before going out of bounds. WR Aldrick Robinson caught a TD pass from Allen while being covered by CB Josh Thorton. Olsen also caught a TD from Allen while beight tightly guarded by LB Shaq Thompson. McCaffrey caught a screen pass from Allen then took it all the way to the end zone.  Jackson bounced back by making a nice pass deflection will covering Hogan on a pass by QB Will Grier. CB Corn Elder made a perfect break on the ball to knock down a pass to WR Torrey Smith on a Grier pass. DB Cole Luke jumped up high and made a spectacular pass deflection on a QB Taylor Heinicke ball in the end zone meant for Hogan. Hogan made it for it by catching a TD over DB Rashaan Gaulden and S Colin Jones on a Grier deep ball. TE Chris Manhertz catches 2 TDs from Grier passes with one being over Kuechly and the other being over S Eric Reid. Boston got a pretty pass deflection while covering Samuel on a deep pass by Allen. LB Antoine Williams drop into coverage and made a pretty smooth INT on a Grier pass intended TE Jason Vander Lean.

#6. After practice was over Reid told every player in the secondary that they need to get the JUGGS machine out because they dropped several interceptions in practice today. This turned into a 30 minute session. LB Jermaine Carter Jr. left practice early with what seems to be a leg issue. Head coach Ron Rivera made it very clear that he will throw out any player who tries to fight during the joint practices with the Buffalo Bills.

 

#WhatARush #KeepPounding