Quick Take: Panthers-Saints

Published: Nov 03, 2009 at 05:39 AM

In Brief

» Last meeting:DeAngelo Williams rushed for 178 yards to lead the Panthers past the Saints, 33-31, in last year's regular-season finale.
» Streaks: Carolina has won six of the past seven meetings and has a 16-12 overall series edge.
» Last week: The Panthers went into Arizona and left with a convincing 34-21 win. ... The Saints improved to 7-0 with a hard-fought 35-27 victory over the rival Falcons.

Keep your eye on ...Carolina's power running game: While New Orleans' defense is much improved this season, its rush defense is still a potential vulnerability. Second-year DT Sedrick Ellis will miss this game with an injury and without him, the defensive front is not especially formidable against the run. That weakness has been masked by the offense forcing opponents into trying to play catch-up and by the Saints' secondary being so opportunistic in pass defense. However, if the Panthers are able to keep it close, Williams and Jonathan Stewart could have a huge impact.

Julius Peppers' sensational run: Since coming off a bye in Week 4, Peppers has been on a mission and is playing like one of the league's best, if not its best, defender. He has six sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception return for a touchdown over that span and has been unblockable at times. He must continue his torrid streak if the Panthers hope to slow down Drew Brees and Co.

Jeremy Shockey's comfort level: In his second season with the Saints, Shockey appears to be fully immersed into the offensive system. He is making outstanding catches all over the field and has given Brees the threat between the hash marks that helps open up the deep ball and the screen passes out of the backfield that the team relies upon so heavily.

Did you know?

Panthers QB Jake Delhomme, who started his career in New Orleans, is 8-2 against the Saints. ... When DeAngelo Williams rushes for 110 yards or more, the Panthers are 10-0. ... Saints RB Reggie Bush has a touchdown in three consecutive games. ... New Orleans is averaging a league-best 39 points per game.

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