Captain Munnerlyn, the Carolina Panthers' loquacious rookie defensive back, can't remember who it was he was talking to last week. But Munnerlyn was eager to discuss the Panthers' newly formidable defense.
"We were saying how this defense really works," Munnerlyn said. "You get some pressure on the quarterback, get some interceptions and away you go. I guess it has taken a while, but look at how it's working now. Everybody's happy."
"Happy" did not describe the Panthers' defensive situation in September, as the season opened with three consecutive losses after a winless preseason. New coordinator Ron Meeks' system remained a mystery to many players. The team was unable to stop the run. Injuries tested the depth. The defense's best player, Julius Peppers, was again being criticized for a perceived lack of effort.
What a difference a month makes. Today, after three wins in four games, the Panthers (3-4) prepare for their biggest test of the season, against the unbeaten New Orleans Saints and their top-ranked offense in the Superdome.
Much of the recent success can be attributed to the defense. After forcing six turnovers against Arizona last week, the Panthers defense has stabilized. Carolina is seventh in the league in total defense (288.1 yards per game) and its pass defense is No.1 (160.6). The Panthers have improved most notably in their run defense. After spending one week ranked last, they're allowing 127.6 yards per game and have moved up to 24th in the league.
"The pieces of the puzzle are finally being put together," tackle Damione Lewis said.
Here is how the puzzle is fitting:
Meeks' scheme - based on the "Tampa 2" defense of his mentor, former Buccaneers and Colts coach Tony Dungy - is taking hold.
The addition of veteran tackle Hollis Thomas has helped shore up the run defense.
Injuries, which decimated the interior line and linebackers in the preseason and into the regular season, have for the most part healed.
Peppers, coming off a memorable performance last week against Arizona, is playing at perhaps the highest level of his career.
