Clu (Phoenix)

I know your biased, but do you think the Cardinals have a shot?

Pat Yasinskas

  (12:51 PM)

I do cover the NFC South, but I try my best not to be biased. That's part of the job. Sure, the Cardinals have a shot. Anything is possible in a one-game playoff and the Cardinals certainly have some things going for them. I'm not saying they win, but I'm saying they have a shot. ...Starting a few minutes early because I'm going to have to cut out a bit early to catch my flight to Charlotte.

Randy (New Orleans)

There are no quick fixes when it comes to rebuilding a defense, so how can the Saints plug enough holes to become a playoff team next year?

Pat Yasinskas

  (12:53 PM)

At least they've got some good parts in place -- Ellis and Vilma. That's not a bad starting spot. I think Porter's going to be a player and you never know if the DEs will show up. But, they do have some work to do.

Chris from Charlotte, NC

Pat, the panthers still do not seem to get much respect this season, every time i turn on the TV there is always chat about other teams. I guess the Panthers will have to win a super bowl to get some respect.

Pat Yasinskas

  (12:54 PM)

We're chatting about them now. If it's not up already, there should be a big story on Jerry Richardson up on our site momentarily and we'll have multiple people at the game tomorrow.

RonBurgundy (Charlotte, NC)

How sweet is your job covering the best conference in the NFL?

Pat Yasinskas

  (12:55 PM)

Love it. And thought you were great in Anchorman.

Steiny (NYC)

I asked Steve Smith the other day if he would call DeAngelo Williams a major Pro Bowl snub? He said, "No, not yet. A lot of the guys that got picked over him did the same thing that he did for a few years. We have a lot of Pro Bowl RBs in the league and you can't take all of them...it takes a year or two to get your chance to get in." That answer surprised me. This guy came up big all season long. Do you think DeAngelo Williams is a major Pro Powl snub?

Pat Yasinskas

  (12:55 PM)

I'd say it's a snub, but Steve's entitled to his opinion.

Mads, Denmark

Hi Pat, I simply love this blog. My name is Mads and I am a big Falcon fan from Denmark. Do you think Falcons will get a big name FA (Dansby, Haynesworth, Sean Jones, Asomugha, etc) in the off season and do you got any feeling about who it should be? Second Question: Who do you think Falcons will get with their first pick in the 2009 draft?

Pat Yasinskas

  (12:57 PM)

Thanks. I'm not sure the Falcons will make any blockbuster moves in free agency this year. Their plan is to build through the draft. That said, I'd go DE, DT, CB and OLB in the early rounds.

MIchael in Ashburn VA

So the Panthers have a better secondary this playoff run than the 03 playoffs. Their front 7, maybe just the front 4 better in 03 than this year. Why do we give up so many passing yards? Always. Maybe it just seems like that to me. Is it lack of pressure? Is it defensive play calling? Or lack of execution? Many times I see open receivers hit soft spots in our zone coverages and are wide open. I'm a flight attendant and I spoke to John Clayton just before the first saints game as he was heading to Charlotte. And he told me that he thought that the Panthers would win, these guys (Saints) throw for over 300 yards against our secondary and we usually pull it out. He was right. Is that the mentality of our coaching staff? Or is it just how it is. I've heard of the bend not break... But isn't that settling? I'm a big fan of the Panthers. Not a critic, and I will support anything that Fox does. He's proven himself to me many, many times.

Pat Yasinskas

  (12:58 PM)

I think it's probably the coaching philosophy more than anything. Hey, it's gotten them this far.

Will (Marshville, NC)

Hey Pat, I have loved your stories in the Observer in the years and im glad you got an upgrade, but I was just wondering what you think the chances are of the Panthers actually holding on to potential interceptions instead of dropping them like they have all season?

Pat Yasinskas

  (12:59 PM)

Good question -- there have been a lot of dropped INTs by LBs as well as DBs. Supposed to rain tomorrow night, so it might be hard for anybody to hold onto the ball.

Wes (Albany, NY)

Hey, Pat, interesting fact that I haven't heard anyone mention: Carolina has played a team in the playoffs that they also played in the regular season 3 times. All resulting in Panther blow out wins (Cowboys, Eagles, Giants) and all under Fox's helm. Just thought I'd pass it along.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:00 PM)

Good stuff. Thanks for sharing.

Giovanni,Charlotte,NC

do you really think our secondary will be prepared more than ever for their passin game? if Boldin is out I know they still have Breaston & Urban but he would be a huge minus

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:01 PM)

I'm sure Fox has been working on it all week. And some pressure from the D-line would be a big help, too.

Tyler (Blacksburg, VA)

Pat, im going to try and get some more questions in but if not PLEASE give me your thoughts on this..FROM a Cardinals fan.. "Sorry, but Steve Smith is not as good as either one of them (Boldin and Fitz). I'd even go as far as to say that Steve Breaston could potentially equal Steve Smith" Thanks Pat , great job this year

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:02 PM)

Try telling that to Steve Smith! They're all good receivers and Smith is as good as anybody.

Giovanni

do you agree that 08 Panthers better than 03? well the only thing i see is our dline & 3rd wide reciever was better in 03

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:03 PM)

Yeah, but your o-line is better, the secondary is better and probably the LBs too. Also, your QB was in his first year as a starter in 03.

Will Mann (Charlotte, NC)

Pat, could you please tell my employees to get back to work and stop reading your blog?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:03 PM)

No, let them keep reading.

Troy: Wilmington, NC

Pat, ever hung out with Gary Williams or Jim Celania? Who's funnier?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:04 PM)

Don't really know Jim, although I played softball against him. He's very funny on the air. Know Gary a little bit and he's very good on the air. Very sharp guy.

Richard (Arden, NC)

Pat, What's the inside word on how McCown is coming along? I remember the Arizona game that Fox talked about where Josh showed up to play. What's the scoop from the sidelines?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:05 PM)

From everything I've heard, they like McCown a lot.

Will (Marshville, NC)

One more questions for ya Pat. Who do you think the Panthers will use as their third reciever tomorrow nite, Dewayne Jarrett or DJ Hackett???

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:05 PM)

Jarrett.

mike (az)

Re: tyler in VA... not all cards fans are that silly. Give me fitz above all and boldin is incredible at what he does but almost all of us know how amazing steve is, esp with the ball in his hands...

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:06 PM)

An objective point of view.

Greg (Salisbury NC)

What factor if any do you think the weather will play tomorrow night?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:07 PM)

Could be big. Just looked at forecast as I was packing and it looks like heavy rain tomorrow night. Could mean they'll both have to keep it on the ground.

Daniel (Washington, DC)

Pat, I believe Wes was referring to the (Cowboys, Eagles and BEARS). They also lost to each of those teams in the regular season that year. Because they won the last Cardinals meeting, do you think there is a legitimate concern for complacency amongst any of the Panthers' units on Saturday? I know I know, it is the playoffs, etc. etc.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:08 PM)

You're correct. But I don't think Fox will let them get complacent.

James(Carrollton,Ga)

Pat, as you know I'm a big Falcons fan, but I think it was pretty clear this wasn't going to be our year to win the SB. Our defense was a little old and our offense a little bit too green when it came to big time games. That being said, I assume the "process" that is always mentioned ends with a shot at a championship. How many years do you think it will take this team to hit its stride?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:09 PM)

Well, I've compared Smith and Dimitroff to Fox and Hurney a bunch of times this year. Panthers were in the SB in their second year. Falcons still have some roster work to be Smith's kind of team all the way. But another offseason should put them close to that.

Chris Monroe NC

Pat, I know you're biased, but with the way this team was built this year and the fact that Mr. Richardson is ailing, how good of a shot do the Panthers have making it to the big one? They played very well in '03 and fed off of Mills and Fields.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:10 PM)

Lot of similiarities to 03. Could end up going a long way. But also need to catch some breaks like they did in 03.

adam(houston)

Will Josh Johnson factor in the QB race next year in Tampa?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:11 PM)

Honestly, I doubt it. They'll go out and sign some big-name veteran.

Mark H, Greensboro, NC

Pat, Hey, I cannot wait until this weekend! It has been the longest week in a long time (especially for a Panther fan waiting 2 weeks). Anyway, who do you think had the best draft this year (looking back to this past April's draft)? I think the Panther's had a great draft. Stewart, Otah, and Godfrey (a lot of people don't give him the respect he deserves). You can also count Chris Harris, since they gave up a 2008 5th round pick for him.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:13 PM)

No doubt, Panthers had an outstanding draft. I agree with you on Godfrey. Atlanta's draft also was excellent -- they got a lot of production out of their rookies. For Tampa -- Talib's going to be good and so is Zuttah, but Dexter Jackson pick isn't looking too good. For Saints, I think Ellis had a solid rookie year when he was healthy and it's too bad Porter got hurt. But Porter's going to be a very good CB.

David (Albuquerque, NM)

Hi Pat. I noticed you said Gary Gibbs got scapegoated for the Saints poor defense this past season. I agree it wasn't all his fault with the many injuries, but do you actually think he deserved a fourth year with the Saints to turn it around? It seemed to me that a substantial change of direction was needed. Who do you see as the best candidate to replace him and bring the team some defensive success for a change?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:15 PM)

Well, they obviously had to make a change and Gibbs was the logical one to go. But it wasn't all his fault. Injuries, etc., contributed. They're going hard after Gregg Williams. This is an important hire for Payton. He's got to get this one right.

Jonny, Queens

Are we going to see Julius rush from a standing position more in these playoffs, it seems the more movement along the line, the more success we have with him

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:16 PM)

That would be my guess.

jimmy(kinston nc)

pat, great job with chat all yr.was on chat with williamson yesterday,he said key to game sat night was whether jake takes care of ball,i think jake is great in playoffs,what do you think are game keys for us to win?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:17 PM)

1. Slow Warner and the WRs. 2. Run the ball to keep AZ offense off field. 3. And, yeah, Jake has to take care of the ball -- but he usually does in playoffs.

Scott Fowler Charlotte

Pat just to let you know that i miss working with you at the Observer

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:18 PM)

Miss you, too, if this is really you. But I'll see you tomorrow night.

Keith (Regina, Saskatchewan)

Nice work on the blog this season, Pat. Is Keith Brooking done? The last play on the Cardinals third-and-long is a horrible way to end a pro-bowl calibre career, but I think he should hang them up.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:20 PM)

All right, several of you are posing the Brooking question. He might retire. If he wants to keep playing, I don't see him returning as a starter. But could see him sticking around as a backup for a low salary. But, clearly, they need to address OLB positions in the offseason.

Taylor (Welcome, NC)

This offseason the Panthers will have some tough choices to make. Given that Gross and Peppers will both be FA, who do you think is more important to the team and who do you think they keep if they can't keep both?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:20 PM)

I think they keep them both -- re-sign one and franchise the other.

Mark H, Greensboro, NC

It seems as though the Panther's home crowd is louder this year. How much of a factor do you think they'll be for the game?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:22 PM)

I know the crowd was impressive for the Monday night game against Tampa. I'd expect a similar atmosphere or even more. Lot of people are going to start getting ready early for this game.

Sam (Boone)

Just read your article on Mr. Richardson and it was a great piece. Carolina fans are truly lucky to have an owner of that caliber. I know you said everyone in the builing calls him mister but from other articles and interviews I've read I was under the impression many in the locker room reffered to Mr. Richardson as "Big Cat" and I have always thought that name really personifies his relationship to the team and his employees as a whole. Knowing how much he means to this team and his health issues lately do you think the Cards have a prayer if the "Big Cat" is in the building?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:23 PM)

No employee calls him Big Cat to his face. It's all Mr. Richardson. Some players can jokingly call him Big Cat. But when it comes right down to it, in serious times, they all call him Mr. Richardson.

Tyler (Blacksburg, VA)

Pat, Do you see Dwayne Jarrett potentially being the Ricky Proehl of 2003 in the playoffs?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:24 PM)

That may be asking for a lot, but I could be wrong.

Joe (Main St. US)

Pat, I think at the end of the year you should give our your blogger awards. Best question, Best comment, Best contributor etc... What do you think?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:25 PM)

Good idea. We'll do it sometime in February.

Mark H, Greensboro, NC

On your Hall of Fame Monitor, how come no love for Beason? I think he could be an outside shot. If he continues his pace, doesn't get hurt, he can put up some serious tackling numbers for a career. Could challenge Jessie Tuggle.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:26 PM)

A little early to include Beason and we were told to limit it to guys who've been around a bit. But Beason is great. If he continues at this pace, yeah, he's definitely in there.

Alex (Kernersville, NC)

Hey Pat -- Love your blog! It's a bit premature, I know, as there are still 3 games left in the season, but what do you feel like is the most important position for the Panthers to draft/sign for this offseason?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:27 PM)

Assuming they keep Pep and Gross, I'd say DT or WR.

Matt in Atlanta

Think you do a great job Pat. Do you think our Defense will wake up with the Big fellas back on the D-line and actually get pressure on Warner this game? The last game had Peppers on the door step for most of the game but he just couldn't get there soon enough.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:28 PM)

I'm sure getting some pressure is going to be a huge part of Fox's game plan.

Jonny, Queens

Do you think that Peppers will always be viewed as an underachiever unless he puts together a 20 sack season?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:29 PM)

Don't think you can say he underachieved this year. If he can put up 14-15 a year, I think that will satisfy a lot of people.

Wilbur (Pageland, SC)

hey Pat, I was just wondering what you thought of the chances of going after a big name defensive lineman besides Pep this offseason to help with the pressure on the d-line?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:30 PM)

They've got to give him a little more help. Not sure that they'd do anything big in free agency, but you could see a DL early in the draft.

Michael Kernersville NC

Why WR Pats? is moose not comeing back?? I thought the panthers sign him to 2 years deal not a 1year deal

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:30 PM)

Moose will be back. I'm just saying they've got to prepare for the long term. Moose is 35. He's not going to go on forever.

Taylor, Atlanta, GA originally Charlotte, NC

We are going to bring down the house tommorrow night. I'm headed to Charlotte in a bit for the game. Are the fans supposed to wear black tommorrow night?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:32 PM)

Yes, I've been told the team is wearing black jerseys. I'm heading to Charlotte in a bit, too. Looking forward to it. Bring your rain gear.

Sam (Boone)

Is there any chance Geoff Handgardner could be ready to go on Sat and if not are we really losing much starting Jeremy Bridges I know Geoff has done a great job this year both at center for Kalil and gaurd but from what I've seen of Bridges he seems to hold his own.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:32 PM)

I don't think there's much drop off at all with Bridges. He's pretty solid.

Andy H, Charlotte, NC

Do you think Edgerrin's performance last week was just an aberration or should the Panther's D have concern that he may be having a resurgance? Come down to section 201 on Saturday and I'll buy you a frosty beverage of your choice for your fine work this year.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:33 PM)

I'm working. But you can bring me one up to the press box AFTER I get off deadline. Edge looked good last week. Panthers have to at least be ready for that.

Wes (Atlanta)

Pat, will Mike Vick's salary come off the Falcons cap this year after he gets out of jail? Seems like some of that money could go to White and Boley, and perhaps still allow them to sign a big free agent (and Gravy Jackson of course).

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:34 PM)

I've got to check on that. I'll post something on the blog next week when I get details.

Jeff (Herndon, VA)

Pat, with Moose having another year on his contract, Jarrett and Jason Carter coming back; I think DT, DE, or CB should be the early picks for the Panthers.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:35 PM)

Are you that comfortable with Jarrett and Carter if Moose suddenly shows his age?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:36 PM)

Yes, it's unfair. The guy is an incredible athlete and people expect him to come up big on EVERY play. Nobody can do that.

Mike (Phoenix)

Do you legitimately think that "anybody" could do what Kurt Warner has done this year or were you just being sensationalist? You had to be full of it right?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:37 PM)

Kurt's had a very nice year. Can't take that away from him.

Philip, Auburn, AL

Any news on the Saints DC job?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:37 PM)

As of the start of this chat, nothing new.

James (Carrollton, GA)

Pat, not trying to be a homer here, but can you think of another team in NFL history that has gotten more out of their top 5 picks in the 1st year then the Falcons have this year? (Ryan, Loftin, Baker, Douglas, Chevis Jackson)

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:38 PM)

Not off the top of my head. Dimitroff seemed to hit it out of the park with every move. Even beyond the draft -- Turner, Foxworth, etc.

Richard (Arden, NC)

Gameday Blackout with White Growltowels. http://www.panthers.com/Gameday/Default.aspx?id=43360

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:39 PM)

There you go.

Al (Grover,NC)

Do you think Jarrett will ever be good enough to be a #2 Wr?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:39 PM)

I haven't seen enough out of him to say that.

Unicorn (Chapel Hill)

Pat, Beason and Gross were just named all pros. DO you think Deangelo and Smitty got snubbed?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:40 PM)

Who got it at RB and WR?

The Arizona Cardinals

Why is everyone writing us off like we have no chance to win? We had the Panthers right where we wanted them at home earlier in the year and gave the game away. We lost it, Carolina didn't win it.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:41 PM)

Well, you get your chance again tomorrow.

Jeff (Herndon, VA)

Early picks for WR are more misses than hits. Another question -- any truth to the rumor that the Panthers are looking to replace their defensive coordinator?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:42 PM)

Don't think you make a move like that in a 12-4 year. Besides, Trgovac is really an extension of Fox.

Unicorn (Chapel Hill)

Pep, Smitty, and Deangelo were named to the second team....

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:43 PM)

Well, then I wouldn't say it's a snub. Second-team isn't selling them short.

Colin S, Chicago Il

How many more years of Moose do you think the Cats have? And you do you see Jarrett stepping up into the #2, or do we have to spend another draft pick on a WR that may or may not pan out?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:43 PM)

Moose could go a couple more years. But at this point, you have to be prepared because age may catch up to him.

Adam (Jersey)

Have you heard anything about Raheem Morris's interview in Denver? Do you think he can get a head coaching job before ever taking over as DC for Tampa?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:44 PM)

Supposedly, had a great interview. But I think he might have to do a year or two as a DC before getting a head job.

Adam (Jersey)

First team WRs were Andre Johnson and Fitz and RBs were Peterson and Turner. I think you can make the argument for the Panthers, but you can't call it a "snub"

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:45 PM)

Yep, that's pretty fair.

Tyler (Blacksburg, VA)

Think Hakeem Nicks from UNC would be a good pick up at WR for the Panthers if we get him 2nd round?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:45 PM)

Yes, I watched him in the bowl game and was real impressed. Also, Panthers like to get local kids.

Jordy. Lula, ga. [via mobile]

Pat, i'm a fan of yours. Do you envision the falcons pursuing any big time free agents or trades? If so, who?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:47 PM)

I think they'll focus on the draft this year. Don't see them going crazy in free agency. Maybe some mid-level guys. Positions to watch: DE, DT, OLB, CB and TE.

Boog (Charlotte)

What happened to Dexter Jackson in Tampa? Weren't there high hopes for him?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:48 PM)

Very high hopes for him. He lost the return job and barely played as a WR. He'll get another shot in training camp, but so far, it's been tough.

Steve Smith (Charlotte, NC)

All I have heard leading up to the Cardinals game is how Larry Fitzgerald is the better receiver. Can you please explain to the fans that I constantly beat double and triple coverages and still put up the numbers that Fitz does. (He has Q to take the pressure off him)

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:49 PM)

You can make your case tomorrow night.

Adam ( Columbia SC)

Pat Did you see the ATL coming or was that a really big surprise?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:49 PM)

No way I saw that coming and I don't think anybody realistically did. Nice job by Smith and Dimitroff.

Adam (Jersey)

Regarding Dexter Jackson and Dre Moore draft picks, [Bruce] Allen said, "The responsibility is mine. Dexter didn't developed as we had hoped as a rookie... be given chances to compete this year"

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:50 PM)

Interesting.

Mike (Charlotte, NC)

Rain tomorrow, advantage Carolina or Arizona?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:50 PM)

I'd have to say Carolina because of the running game.

Adam (Jersey)

I saw that long-term negotiations with Antonio Bryant were "moving in the right direction." If they aren't able to get a deal done, however, do you think they might franchise him?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:51 PM)

Yes, I've heard that's a good possibility -- if they don't sign him.

Adam ( Columbia SC)

sorry typo I meant ATL's loss to Arizona last week. Thanks

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:51 PM)

Oh, not really a huge surprise. Cards were at home.

Zack (Reading PA)

What is each team's biggest need heading into FA?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:52 PM)

Saints: Anything on defense. Maybe a running back. Bucs: QB. Falcons: OLB, DT, DE. Panthers: DT, WR.

Boog (Charlotte)

How safe is John Fox as the head coach if they don't win tomorrow?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:53 PM)

Very safe.

Ryan (Charlotte, NC)

What player not being mentioned in the media will have the biggest impact on the Panthers vs Cardinals game on Saturday night? My vote goes to return guy Mark Jones of the Panthers.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:53 PM)

Good one. I'll go with Charles Godfrey.

Wraunch( Davidson, NC)

Pat, what effect do you think the weather here in Charlotte will have on Warner? Also, any news on Boldin? Btw, it's cold and windy with a 60% chance of rain throughout the game.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:54 PM)

Warner's a veteran, but weather could make it tough for everyone. All right, 2 more questions and I've got to head for the airport.

Matt Cassel

Do i need to start looking for apartments in Tampa?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:54 PM)

Not if you get franchised.

Carolina Panthers

As far as the Cards asking why no one is picking them tomorrow after they played us close the first time...wouldn't a fair answer be that we have evolved DRAMATICALLY as a team since that game, while the Cardinals have played at about the same level up until last weekend?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:55 PM)

Valid point.

Zack (Reading PA)

Could the Bucs go after Peppers?

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:55 PM)

If he's out there, yes. But I don't think Panthers will let him go. All right, I've got to run to catch my flight to Charlotte. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy the game tomorrow.

Sam (Boone)

Any word on whether or not the chats will continue throughout the year. We have all appreciated the coverage of the NFC South you provide us.

Pat Yasinskas

  (1:57 PM)

All right, I'm taking one more. I'm not sure yet on if the chats will go year-round. Waiting on word from Bristol. But I suspect we'll have at least some during the offseason. I'll let you know as soon as I know more.