Sir Purr
Well-known member
- Mar 16, 2019
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WILL THE TIGHT ENDS GET MORE INVOLVED?
During training camp, tight ends Ian Thomas and Chris Manhertz both received praise for their performance in the new offense. But through three games, they've combined for just six targets and five receptions.
Thomas has caught three of his four targets for 25 yards. Manhertz reeled in both of his targets for 12 yards.
Manhertz is more known for his blocking skills than his receiving ability. He's been in the league since 2014, and his next catch will mark a single-season career-high.
But given Carolina's red zone woes, Manhertz and Thomas both have a chance to make a difference inside the 20. Manhertz is listed at 6-foot-6 and 255 pounds, Thomas at 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds. Both can present matchup problems within scoring distance.
IF HE PLAYS, CAN ANYONE LIMIT HOPKINS?
DeAndre Hopkins has been the league's best wide receiver through three weeks of the season, leading the NFL in receptions (32) and receiving yards (356). Plus, Hopkins has caught 32 of his 37 targets for an 86.5 percent catch rate — well above the 60.3 percent rate from his first seven seasons.
But there's a chance Hopkins won't see the field on Sunday, as he's listed as questionable with an ankle injury. Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury said whether Hopkins plays will be a game-time decision on Sunday.
If he's not out there, the Cardinals' offense will look dramatically different. Hopkins has registered games with 151, 68, and 137 yards receiving so far. If there's one possible criticism of the wideout with his new team, it's that he's gotten in the end zone only once.
The Clemson product is always a challenge, and that is sure to be the case on Sunday. Hopkins is going to get his, but if the Panthers can at least limit his production and stave off explosive plays, they may contain the three-time, first-team All-Pro.