5 reasons the Carolina Panthers can win Super Bowl 50

3 of 6

Jan 24, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short (99) pressures Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) as he looks to pass during the first quarter in the NFC Championship football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Defensive Line

General manager Dave Gettleman came over from the New York Giants and what made the Giants teams great in the past was a defensive line and pass rush that can come at you in waves. While the Giants don’t have that any more, Gettleman instituted that philosophy here.

At the end, Charles Johnson battled injuries but can still produce. The Panthers traded for Jared Allen during the season, but lost him during the playoffs. Kony Ealy was a second round pick in 2014 and provided five sacks. They also have Mario Addison and Frank Alexander to provide depth.

The interior is where the line shines though. When Gettleman came in 2013, his first two picks were Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short. Both have developed into forces and keys to the defense. Their pressure up the middle can free up their linebacking corps to make the plays that they do. They also claimed Kyle Love off waivers who provided some depth from the inside.

The defensive line is what’s important and the key to the Panthers defense.

Next: 3. Offensive Line

Home/Carolina Panthers