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Kickoff specialist Rhys Lloyd takes up an extra roster spot that the Carolina Panthers could be using elsewhere, but his performance so far has been invaluable.
The Panthers lead the NFL in kickoffs going into the end zone for a touchback – 47.4 percent, more than double the league average of 18.7 percent.
The average drive start for Carolina opponents after a kickoff is the 22.1-yard line, tied for third best in the league.
The Panthers lead the league with 39 penalties, for 251 yards, but coach
John Fox didn't sound too upset about it at his Monday news conference.
“I'm more concerned with our record than stats,” he said. “The most important stat is that ‘W' and ‘L' column, and it always will be. I think I've said before that stats are for losers.”
Fox and Kansas City coach
Herm Edwards, whose Chiefs play at Carolina Sunday, were college teammates at San Diego State in 1976. Both were defensive backs.
“Herm was a very good player and teammate,” said Fox. “He was a really good cover guy. He wasn't the fastest or strongest guy, but he had great instincts and was actually a great interceptor of the ball.”
Fox said it's likely that neither he nor Edwards sensed back then that they'd be coaches someday.
Defensive end
Julius Peppers needs one sack in the remaining 12 games to surpass his 2007 total of 21/2.
