Jets’ Santonio Holmes calls Panthers’ secondary ‘weakest link’

The Carolina Panthers have been one of the biggest surprises of the NFL this season. Panthers’ quarterback Cam Newton has been fantastic, but the Panthers’ defense has been the real story. It ranks second in the NFL.

The numbers have impressed New York Jets’ wide receiver Santonio Holmes, but one part of the Panthers’ defense doesn’t put much fear into the talkative pass catcher.

“Not to call those guys out, but their secondary is probably their weakest link on their defense,” Holmes told Rich Cimini of ESPN.com.

Holmes has struggled through injuries and poor quarterback play. He has just 16 receptions for 341 yards and one touchdown on the season, yet he still feels he can exploit the Panthers’ secondary.

“Just from a numbers perspective and guys in their position, nothing from my perspective puts those guys in (the elite) category,” Holmes explained. “It’s the way they’re ranked throughout the NFL. It’s not my perspective.”

The Panthers are fifth against the pass and have intercepted 16 passes this season.

The Jets and Panthers will square off at 4:05 pm EST Sunday.