The Panthers lost to the Falcons last night at home, 25-17. While it was a frustrating loss in many ways, there were once again some hopeful signs from the rookie class of 2020.
Here’s how they did in Week 8.
DT Derrick Brown
Brown didn’t light up the stat sheet against the Falcons. That’s generally not what defensive tackles, do though. Brown is still doing a good job eating space and setting up his teammates to make stops. This sack for Efe Obada is a solid example.
Nice little twist game inside between Efe Obada and Derrick Brown. 95 with a clear path, forces Ryan to step into 94, who recovers for the sack.
It was also great coverage in the back end. That’s good third down defense. pic.twitter.com/PUTGvE5lqd
— John Ellis (@OnePantherPlace) October 30, 2020
Brown was flagged for a holding penalty at one point but it was an atrocious call and not his fault.
DB/LB/RB Jeremy Chinn
It’s starting to look like this kid really can do it all. Last night, Chinn showed he can make a difference on special teams, as well. He gained 28 rushing yards on this fake punt, which Chinn apparently called on an audible.
JEREMY CHINN CAN DO IT ALL
Live Now: https://t.co/fFCLyeyvT3 pic.twitter.com/8SOgD2igDt
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) October 30, 2020
Chinn also led the team with 10 combined tackles and is starting to make an impact as a pass rusher, as well – totaling four pressures on Matt Ryan. He’s an exceptional talent who is going to have a special career.
CB Troy Pride Jr.
While the future for Chinn looks exceedingly bright, it’s the opposite for Pride. He got extended playing time with Rasul Douglas out again and Donte Jackson having to leave early due to his toe injury. Pride can’t even seem to keep his own feet under him at this point.
Wtf is Troy Pride doin 😭 pic.twitter.com/wU3bjf0yGa
— ً (@SHlVVV) October 30, 2020
If they’re going to compete for a wild card spot, the Panthers need to bring in more help at this position.
S Sam Franklin
Franklin also saw a big snap count for the second week in a row. There were times when he looked lost on the field, but Franklin did tally four tackles and came through with a clutch PBU on Julio Jones to prevent a touchdown.
¡QUÉ SALVADA DE SAM FRANKLIN! 😱
¡Increíble! Julio Jones se quedó con ganas de TD #RiseUpATL 13-14 #KeepPounding #NFLxFOX pic.twitter.com/xHLD7LDf6T
— FOX Impacto NFL (@FOXImpactoNFL) October 30, 2020
CB Stantley Thomas-Oliver III
A lot of rookies saw action in the second half, including the team’s seventh-round draft pick. Thomas-Oliver played his first defensive snaps of the season. Having him cover Julio one-on-one isn’t ideal, but he made a couple of nice plays and one tackle on third down.
Defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos remains on the injured reserve list with a high ankle sprain. He will be eligible to return to the active roster soon but will likely be out a while longer.
