Shaq Thompson, Linebacker
Although he didn’t register any of its three takeaways, linebacker Shaq Thompson was an absolute force for the Panthers’ defense on Sunday. He led the team with 13 tackles (six solo), reaching double digits for only the third time in his career.
It’s not easy to lead Carolina in tackles when you’re playing alongside the likes of Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis. When you take that into account, what Thompson was able to accomplish against the Ravens is even more impressive.
Thompson’s 13 tackles were a career high, and he did so despite playing only 39 defensive snaps (57 percent of the total). That means he made the tackle on exactly one-third of the plays he was on the field for.
Just imagine what Thompson could do if he were to play more snaps. He has received a diminished role since Davis returned from suspension in Week 6. However, the Panthers will have no choice but to put him on the field if he continues to play like he did against the Ravens.
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