A perfect explanation of Carolina’s 9-0 start
“A lot of people want to look at power rankings, a lot of people want to look at individual accolades up until this point – ‘Why are they winning?’ It’s simple. The defense is playing great, special teams is getting great field position, the offense is winning the point of attack. No, we don’t put up five or six touchdowns a game, but we find ways to win. I’ll say it flat out: Are we the most talented team in the league? Absolutely not. But I pride myself in being able to say we have the potential to be the best team in the league.”
Impressed by Panthers’ offense
“The numbers, as far as leading the league in this and that, you look at them and say, ‘Hey they’re not that great.’ When you watch them on tape they do an excellent job at keeping you off balance … They’re tough to deal with, with the quarterback designed runs, the Jonathan Stewart runs, the read option, the reverses, the [end] arounds, all the stuff that they do, they can hurt you in a lot of different ways.”
Released by Washington shortly before the 2012 season
“I didn’t have the greatest time there. I could go on and on and on about things, but I’ll keep it professional. I’m happy to be here and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
Was on Washington’s practice squad before the Panthers picked him up in September
“I feel like I have to prove something to them.”
Like in Tampa against another team that didn’t give you the shot you wanted?
“Yeah, same thing.”
Became buddies with Washington QB Kirk Cousins before the 2012 draft
“I get in between the white lines, it’s a different story. We friends and we cool, but at the same time, I’m going to take it back to the house on him if he gives me a chance to.”
Eight straight home wins, the longest current streak in the NFL
“The fan support we’ve got is something I’m really excited about because we are trying to build something and we’d love to make it one of these places that’s a difficult place to come and play because our fans are going to be very loud and you’ll feel their presence.”
Defends Newton’s right to dance, but won’t try it himself
“I do think when you run the ball in, it is a totally different deal than when you throw it. That’s one, and two … if you don’t have that kind of rhythm, it is hard to come up with some great celebrations.”
Wasn’t a big dancer in his playing days
“I don’t think I ever got in the end zone.”
Not into dabbin
“What’s that?”
As always, says it well
“I’m just worried about the Redskins. I’m not worried about banners or dancing. I’m worried about the big guy I’ve got to block this week.”
