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Something's got to give.
That was the mantra for several members of the Carolina Panthers defense Thursday as they looked forward to a strength vs. strength battle against the New Orleans offense Sunday at Bank of America Stadium.
The Panthers' defense is ranked third in the NFL, allowing 264.5 yards per game.
The Saints are No.2 in offense, gaining 412.2 yards per game.
So which is going to give?
“Hopefully, it's them and not us,” said Panthers strong safety Chris Harris.
To take the showdown a step further, Carolina's strongest suit on defense has been defending the pass (No.4 in the NFL), which is what New Orleans does best on offense (No.3).
“I think we match up well against them based on what they like to do” said Carolina linebacker Jon Beason. “They have a fast-rhythm offense with explosive players. We feel like we play fast on defense with explosive guys.
“It's going to be interesting to see what happens.”
As good as New Orleans has been, the Saints have played much of the season without receiver Marques Colston and tight end Jeremy Shockey because of injuries.
Both are expected back against the Panthers, which should make the Saints even more potent.
“They're starting to get healthy and get their weapons back,” said Harris. “We feel confident in what we do in our game plan. No matter who is out there, I feel good about what we've got.”
Quarterback Drew Brees and multi-dimensional running back Reggie Bush are the stars of the Saints' offense.
Brees ranks second in the league in passer rating (105.0), first in passing yards (1,993) and tied for fourth in touchdown passes (12).
Brees is on pace to throw for 5,314 yards this season, which would break Dan Marino's single-season record for passing yards (5,084 in 1984).
Bush has scored a league-high eight touchdowns, including three on punt returns.
“This is a high-powered offense,” said Harris. “They sling it around all the time, throw it 30, 40 or 50 times a game. I think it could really test our pass defense in the back.”
Harris said the Panthers must be careful not to give up big plays.
Over the past five games, Carolina has allowed only one TD pass of 20 or more yards.
The Panthers' defense had gone nine consecutive quarters without allowing any touchdowns before giving up two in a disappointing 27-3 road loss against Tampa Bay last week.
“We're playing pretty well on defense, but we know we can play a lot better,” said Beason. “When you're facing a top offense, that's a true challenge.”
