Search FortMillTimes.com for:
Sports - Panthers
rss

Published: Sunday, Nov. 25, 2012 / Updated: Sunday, Nov. 25, 2012 07:31 PM

Eagles rookie Nick Foles filles in for QB Michael Vick

Can Foles handle the pressure?

Eagles rookie quarterback Nick Foles struggled last week in his first start in place of Michael Vick, who remains out with post-concussion symptoms. Washington sacked Foles four times and intercepted him twice in the Redskins’ 31-6 win. Foles said he expects to be more comfortable in the pocket this week, but Greg Hardy and Charles Johnson – whose 15.5 sacks are tied for the most among defensive end tandems – will look to disrupt him. Panthers defensive coordinator Sean McDermott, a longtime Eagles assistant, can be more aggressive with RB LeSean McCoy out.

Can the Panthers perform in prime time?

  • factbox1-B822845964Z
    "Carolina at Philadelphia Where: Lincoln Financial Field When: 8:30 p.m. Records: Panthers 2-8; Eagles 3-7 Watch: ESPN (Mike Tirico, Jon Gruden)

The Panthers flopped the last time they were on national television, falling behind the Giants 20-0 at halftime and losing 36-7. The Panthers had five turnovers, including three interceptions by Cam Newton. Newton played well last week against Tampa Bay, but was on the sideline when the defense allowed Tampa Bay to put together a pair of 80-yard touchdown drives at the end of regulation and in overtime to erase an 11-point, fourth-quarter deficit. The Panthers’ failure to win close games could stand as Ron Rivera’s legacy.

Special teams do-over, part II

The Panthers’ special teams remained a problem last week under Richard Rodgers, who took over after special teams coordinator Brian Murphy was fired. Captain Munnerlyn fumbled a punt, the Panthers botched a fake punt, and Justin Medlock missed his third consecutive field goal. Former Redskin Graham Gano replaces Medlock, who was cut last week. Joseph Person