Although the game is 2 weeks away, it’s not too early to look at 6 statistical matchups for Panthers-Patriots
(1) Scoring defense
The Patriots, led by linebackers Mike Vrabel, Tedy Bruschi and Willie McGinest, allowed 14.9 points per game, best in the NFL. The Panthers gave up 19 points per game, 10th in the league.
(2) Rushing defense
Nose tackle Ted Washington (remember him?) keys the defensive line and New England allowed only 89.6 yards per game. But the Panthers’ defense, led by linemen Kris Jenkins and Julius Peppers, allows only 107.6 yards per game, 11th best.
(3) Total offense
With Tom Brady at the controls, the Patriots’ offense averages 314.9 yards (17th) and 21.8 points per game (12th). Carolina, led by QB Jake Delhomme, averages 321.3 yards (16th) and 20.3 points (15th).
(4) Rushing offense
Behind Stephen Davis, Carolina’s offense was 7th best in the league at 130.7 yards per game. The Patriots ranked 27th at 100.4 yards per game.
(5) Turnovers
The Patriots were second in NFL at plus-17 in turnover margin (41 take-aways vs. 24 giveaways); the Panthers ranked 25th at minus-5 (36 takeaways vs. 31 giveaways).
(6) Kicking game
Carolina’s John Kasay hit 32-of-38 field goals (long of 53) and punter Todd Sauerbrun (remember him?) averaged 44.6, third best in the NFL. New England’s Adam Vinatieri hit 25-of-34 (long of 48) while Ken Walter ranked 31st with an average punt of 37.7.
