How the Panthers Can Attack Minnesota’s Man Coverage
September 24, 2016
Billy Marshall
In just two-plus seasons, Minnesota coach Mike Zimmer has transformed the Vikings’ defense into an elite unit. With talent at all three levels, Zimmer employs aggressive man coverage and uses disguises and creative blitzes to confuse opposing offenses.
So the Panthers face a tough challenge on Sunday, but here are two pass concepts that could work against the Vikings’ man coverage, plus a look at Kelvin Benjamin’s potential matchup against cornerback Trae Waynes.
Weakside Three Level Stretch
This concept attacks all levels of one side of the field. After receivers line up in a bunch formation, their routes attack the sideline to remove the middle safety.
In this example from Week Two, Panthers receiver Ted Ginn Jr. doesn’t complete the catch, but it’s example of how the concept can stretch a defense:
Hi-Lo Mesh
This concept includes two drag routes at different depths, creating a natural rub in the middle of the field. Ginn and Philly Brown each had success with the High-Lo Mesh last season:
Benjamin Vs. Waynes
Minnesota’s second-year corner has had a tough time in press man coverage this season.
In this example, Waynes is out wide against Tennessee’s Andre Johnson. When Waynes has a hand pressed against him, he falls down:
Against the Packers on Sunday Night Football, Waynes was flagged once for holding and twice for pass interference:
Because Benjamin has improved in breaking press this season, a potential matchup against Waynes should be advantage Panthers: