January 22, 2006
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January 21, 2006
Issue #63
Weekly Publication
Table of Contents:
Carolina Panthers +4
Dr. D’s Thoughts And Ponders
Since the readers of Reno have been enjoying the information for free we thought that we would send this out to Thehooks Book customers. We are 13-7 with this pick.
Carolina +4 @ Seattle
On Sunday, the Carolina Panthers travel to the Windy City to take on a Bears team that hasn’t won a playoff game in 11 years.
Coming off a 5-11 season a year ago, the Bears turned it around this year winning the NFC North crown with a defense that ranked first in points and second overall. Their offense on the other hand was inconsistent to say the least especially in the passing game. Rookie Kyle Orton took over for Rex Grossman in the preseason when Grossman went down with a broken ankle. Though he helped lead the Bears to an 11-5 record, he was anything but consistent. The running game of the Bears on the other hand is top notch. Thomas Jones led a strong rushing attack behind an offensive line that helped him finish fifth in the league in rushing. But with an inconsistent offense, the Bears were thankful for such a solid defense, which in many games gave them more points than the offense did.
It took Carolina till the final week of the season to secure themselves a playoff spot. But don’t let the wild-card label fool you, this Panther team is battle tested. Remember, this is the team that in 2003 beat the Rams and the Eagles on the road en route to the Super Bowl where they eventually lost to the Patriots. This year, the road to the Super Bowl for the Panthers will not include any home games just like in 2003. Last week, the beat the Giants 23-0 on the road shutting down the running game of Barber and pestered Manning all game.
For Carolina to be successful this weekend in Chicago, their game plan has to be similar to the one they had last week in New York. Their defense needs to step it up once again. They need to be able to shut down the rushing attack of Jones and they need to get consistent pressure on Grossman all game. Offensively, the Panthers need to stick to what they did last weekend and that was to play conservatively. They must be able to run the ball like they did (223 yards) as well as have Delhomme play within himself and his ability. Against the Giants, he kept it simple. Short passes to Smith and let the receivers and backs make the plays. If Delhomme is given time in the pocket by his line (sacked 8 times against the Bears in last meeting), he will be able to find the open receivers which will open up the running game as well.
I see the Panthers sticking to their game plan and beating the Bears this weekend. The Bears haven’t been to the playoffs since 2001 and the Panthers are in a familiar position, playing a playoff game on the road. Look for the Panthers to move on to the NFC championship.
Welcome to Thoughts And Ponders by Dr. D
The Dr. had to attend to some other matters this week. He will return next week.
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