In order to be successful in the NFL you have to have a short memory.  We’ll see how short the memories of the Carolina Panthers are this Sunday, with the Panthers coming off an embarrassing defeat at the hands of the Buccaneers.  A win Sunday is imperative because will keep the Panthers in first place in the NFC South.

There is no doubt that the Saints have one of the best offenses in the NFL, ranking 1st in passing offense, and second in total offense. What will be interesting is how well Drew Brees plays against the Panthers defense, which ranks 2nd in the NFL against the pass, and 3rd in total defense.  Somethings gotta give, but as they say, defense wins championships.  When you look at matchups where you’ve got a good defense squaring off against a good offense, the team with the defense usually comes out on top; just look at the Super Bowl last year.

The major issue with New Orleans is not scoring points, its making sure the other team doesn’t.  It really doesn’t matter how many points your offense puts on the board if your defense give up just as many.  Look for Jake Delhomme and the offense to come out firing on all cylinders.

Keys to the Game

1. Pressure Drew Brees- I can’t state how important it is for Julius Peppers and company to get pressure on Drew Brees.  Brees, is has the highest passer rating in the NFC, will have a field day if he is given time in the pocket.  The front four getting pressure makes the secondary’s job a whole lot easier.  Both Marques Colston and Jeremy Shockey are expected to play Sunday, which means the defense will have to be on its game.

2. Get the Ball to Steve Smith- After the game Smitty had last week dropping some balls, one a definite touchdown, expect him to come out pumped and motivated.  As I said before the problem with the Saints have been their defense.  The Saint’s secondary has given up 21 plays of 20 yards or more this season, worst in the NFL.  Forget trying to establish the run, Delhomme and Smith need to come into the game looking to exploit that secondary.

3. Get the Ball to DeAngelo in the Flat- The Panthers tried in vain last week to establish a running game.  Obviously New Orleans isn’t as stout against the run, ranking 14th in the league, but with Ryan Kalil and Jeff Otah still doubtful, running between the tackles may prove to be difficult.  DeAngelo Williams is the kind of back that works best out in space, so if the Panthers can get the ball to him on some screen plays or outside runs, Williams will have a better chance of breaking off a big run.

4. Special Teams- Much of last week’s loss to Tampa Bay had to do with the Panther’s special teams play.  The Panthers had horrible field position for much of the game, at one point even backed up on their own one yard line.   Also, the Panthers coverage team needs to be on its game when Reggie Bush is returning the ball.  Bush showed his elusiveness twice last week, running two punts back for touchdowns against the Vikings.  So far the Panthers have been pretty solid in limiting returns, and that can’t change Sunday.

Injuries

WR D. J. Hackett is out with a knee injury, which means Dwayne Jarrett may see some playing time.  Ryan Kalil and Jeff Otah are still doubtful, which means the Panthers will most likely have the same starting lineup as last week as far as the offensive line goes.  Jonathan Stewart is questionable with an illness.

The Panthers, who are undefeated at home, will face a tough test Sunday.  As bad as last week’s loss was, it was only one game, and the Panthers should be able to bounce back Sunday.

Panthers 27, Saints 24

Tags: nfc south, panthers, saints