The best thing about Week 1 of the NFL season is the vibe of renewal and the possibilities of either adding on to a contender or making strides to contend.
For the Carolina Panthers it’s about not only just making strides, it’s about officially wiping the slate clean and washing their hands of an abysmal 2023 season. Sunday’s season opener against the New Orleans Saints is the first step in this challenge. Here are some keys to a Week 1 win.
2.5 Seconds Or Less…Or Else
The Saints’ passing defense finished in the top 10 last season, allowing 207.3 yards per game. Their defense, at 19.2 ppg also finished as the eighth best scoring defense.
The additions of linebacker Willie Gay and defensive end Chase Young to their front seven made their pass rush even better than before. With a beefed-up front seven the Saints’ defense will force quick throws.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales wants to establish the run to open up the pass. In the passing game Canales wants Bryce Young to throw within 2.5 seconds of the snap or less: quick decisions and quick passes. Against the Saints’ pass defense, a steady diet of short passes and screens for yards after catch opportunities would move the chains and set up opportunities to capitalize.
Spy Games
For new Saints’ offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, a point of emphasis this season is to create more opportunities in their revamped offense for tight end and utility player Taysom Hill. During the summer Hill got reps at fullback, slot receiver, and tight end. Kubiak wants his offense to operate in space and Hill will be a big part of that with his pass catching.
To counter, Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evers may want to use a spy to shadow and contain Hill.
Big Test For Edge Rushers
Just like the Panthers, the Saints have a new offensive line. Rookie Tallies Fuaga will start at left tackle, while Trevor Penning will move to right tackle. This is something to watch, because at Oregon State Fuaga played right tackle. This alignment is part of their scheme to move Derek Carr out of the pocket.
Look for the Panthers’ edge rushers will be an x-factor in this game since the Saints want to operate in space and not limit Carr to pocket passing. Since Fuaga and Penning aren’t lined up in their familiar positions, the Panthers’ rushers could use that unfamiliarity to their advantage.