60,000 Hites

Just a few days ago Scrapper Nation crossed the 60,000 hit plateau. It’s an important milestone that couldn’t have been possible without all of you, the loyal readers of Scrapper Nation that have stuck with The Scrapper and kept coming back for more.

In response to the many emails I’ve received from readers who could care less about The Scrapper’s flag football exploits (although many of you have commended my smack talking skills), I’m devoting today’s post to real football.

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Panthers 34, Chiefs 0

Today turned out to be a big day for the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers pummeled the Chiefs on the back of Deangelo Williams’ 123 yards rushing and 3 touchdowns. The Panthers should be proud of an effort that was without a doubt the most dominating performance to date of the current NFL season.

What word comes to mind in describing this Panthers team?

Balance.

The running game features two first round picks in Deangelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. The Panthers have quickness, agility, and game breaking speed in Deangelo Williams while Jonathan Stewart has proven himself to be the rugged, strong back that Carolina has been searching for since the Stephen Davis era.

At wide receiver, the re-arrival of Muhsin Muhammad as well as the addition of D.J. Hackett have given the Panthers legitimate threats to complement Steve Smith.

Along with upgrading skill position players and a steadied offensive line, The Panthers defense has been nothing but exceptional all year. Last year’s Panthers squad had a big problem with their rush defense. With a rejuvenated Julius Peppers, the Panthers have yet to concede a 100 yard rushing game to an opposing running back. It’s quite an accomplishment when you consider the quality of running backs the Panthers have already gone up against this season: LaDainian Tomlinson, Matt Forte, Adrian Peterson, Michael Turner, and Larry Johnson.

But you know what jersey I’m wearing to school tomorrow?

That’s right, no. 17-Jake (the snake) Delhomme. Before the season began I was nervous about how well Jake would be able to perform after having off-season Tommy John’s surgey. Delhomme is the first starting quarterback to have undergone the surgery and his chances of a full recovery weren’t certain. Jake has put all of my fears to rest with a calmness and serenity in the pocket that I haven’t ever seen from him. He has made good decisions and been the key to the Panthers’ newfound offensive firepower.

At this point in the season I think it’s safe to say that the Panthers are one of the elite teams in the NFC (along with every team in the NFC East).

Power rankings coming soon...