The Panthers locked up their second straight NFC South title last Sunday thanks in large part to a dominant defensive performance. While safety Roman Harper was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week, you could argue defensive tackle Star Lotulelei had the biggest impact.After a slow start and a mid-year ankle injury, Lotulelei was having a relatively disappointing sophomore season. But against Atlanta, he exploded for two sacks and seven tackles, both single-game career highs.One each of his takedowns of Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, Lotulelei displayed excellent strength on bull rushes.This was the first:http://i.imgur.com/fJ5scpi.gifvAnd here is the second:http://i.imgur.com/GUDnDNy.gifvIn above example, Lotulelei comes in from the left defensive tackle position. He wins his battle with the right guard with strength and power. Lotulelei gained perfect position before he engaged, and then put the guard on skates once he did. He finished the play by chasing down Ryan before he even moved off his throwing spot.While bull rushes and incredible natural power are big parts of Lotulelei’s game, those aren’t his only excellent attributes. What makes him a unique player is his striking athleticism for a man his size.In the example below, he displays excellent concentration and intelligence. As he’s starting to get into his pass rush, he recognizes a screen pass. He then gives chase to running back Devonta Freeman. What’s most impressive is Lotulelei chases down a guy he outweighs by more than 100 pounds:http://i.imgur.com/b7LDYIi.gifvWhen Lotulelei is at his best, he’s the type of transcendent defensive talent that elevates the rest of the team. And on days like last Sunday, he commands constant double teams.In the next example, Lotulelei lines up as the right side defensive tackle. It came during the second half, so the Falcons were aware of the type of game he was having, and they tried putting two guys on Lotulelei:
The extra attention didn’t work. The double team works initially, but Lotulelei eventually shoots through before making a solo tackle:
When he’s playing up to his lofty potential, Lotulelei’s presence frees up playmaking opportunities for fellow rushers and linebackers. And sometimes, he’s so good he’ll just make the play himself, even when he’s being doubled.There are many important pieces on the Panthers’ defense, but Lotulelei is a guy who can elevate the unit to an elite level. If he continues to dominate like he did in Atlanta, Carolina could be a very tough out this postseason.[author title=”About the Author”]
Breaking Down: The Star Lotulelei Effect
Posted on Author Matt HarmonCategories Breaking Down, News, Wild CardTags Bene Benwikere, Carolina Panthers, Charles Johnson, Falcons, Josh Norman, Matt Ryan, Star Lotulelei
BlackBlueReview that’s a very strong #tease
BlackBlueReview that’s a very strong #tease
MattHarmon_BYB great analysis, as usual!
MattHarmon_BYB great analysis, as usual!
salmingoCSR thank you, sir!
salmingoCSR thank you, sir!
MattHarmon_BYB sdanner52 We have a good DT rotation, the other guys will just need to step up and play some extra snaps. #NextManUp!
MattHarmon_BYB sdanner52 We have a good DT rotation, the other guys will just need to step up and play some extra snaps. #NextManUp!
MattHarmon_BYB better for Lynch or better for Wilson?
MattHarmon_BYB better for Lynch or better for Wilson?
justinbonnema Lynch biggest boost, but it really helps the whole offense.
justinbonnema Lynch biggest boost, but it really helps the whole offense.
Love it, I didn’t know Star was becoming a Star. The Panthers need to get back to their 2013 D line dominance, and its going to be hard to replace Greg Hardy. Star is developing. A D tackle doesn’t get the fancy stats, even the best like King Kong Suh.
I loved watching Suh demolish blocking schemes, when he wasn’t playing against teams I root for. King Kong Suh isn’t an insult, its just acknowledging: Ndamukong Suh’s 2015 contract of 20 million a year, officially makes him Royalty. Long may he reign.
Love it, I didn’t know Star was becoming a Star. The Panthers need to get back to their 2013 D line dominance, and its going to be hard to replace Greg Hardy. Star is developing. A D tackle doesn’t get the fancy stats, even the best like King Kong Suh.
I loved watching Suh demolish blocking schemes, when he wasn’t playing against teams I root for. King Kong Suh isn’t an insult, its just acknowledging: Ndamukong Suh’s 2015 contract of 20 million a year, officially makes him Royalty. Long may he reign.