Early look at the Detroit Lions 2017 opponents: Carolina Panthers
By Ash Thompson
Cornerback
Captain Munnerlyn joined the Panthers and will likely shore up their slot corner spot for 2017. It was one of their major issues in 2016. The team also added fifth round pick Corn Elder, who would likely have been a day two pick most years. The will be more difficult to exploit inside in 2017.
On the outside, the Panthers have two reasonable starters but nothing particularly dangerous for Matthew Stafford to worry about. James Bradberry had a solid season considering that he broke his wrist in OTAs before his rookie year. He is a bigger bodied physical
James Bradberry had a solid season considering that he broke his wrist in OTAs before his rookie year. He is a bigger bodied physical corner but showed few lingering effects after the injury. Daryl Worley had a rougher rookie season, notching 88 tackles on the year.
When a corner has a lot of tackles, that typically means they are allowing catches. The Panthers play a lot of cover three, trying to limit big plays, similarly to the Lions last year. While their young corners are not doing them any favors, it is not that big a weakness in their scheme.
Safety
This is a massive area of concern for the Lions offense. The Panthers brought over ballhawk safety Mike Adams from the Colts this offseason. He is an opportunist who can take advantage of an errant throw. Strong safety Kurt Coleman has also notched 11 interceptions in the last two seasons. Matthew Stafford will need to err on the side of caution in order to avoid costly turnovers.
Specialists
The Panthers has some issues with their kicking game last season. Graham Gano made only 78.9% of his field goal attempts. Their Punter, Andy Lee, missed seven games with a hamstring injury. Lee took a reduced contract to keep his job, and at 34 years of age may be on the decline.
The Panthers drafted 6’4″ 200lb place kicker Harrison Butker in the seventh round in an attempt to shore up their unit. The kid has a booming leg and may be just what the doctor ordered.
Brenton Bursin and Fozzy Whitaker are the front runners for the return jobs in Carolina if McCaffery is not utilized in that role. Given that McCaffery is one of the most dangerous returners in recent college football memory, one has to suspect the Lions will be dealing with him as the primary return man in week five.
Next: Early look at the Minnesota Vikings
Conclusion
I am expecting a big turnaround for the Panthers in 2017. They’ve addressed their weaknesses. The Panthers may not return to the lofty heights of 2015, but will not be drafting in the top ten next offseason. The Lions will need to be prepared if they want to come out of week five with a victory.