The Return of the Lone Panther

It seems so long ago that Steve Smith, the greatest Panther of all time (not Chris Wienke contrary to popular belief) was competing weekly with Chad "Johnson" and Terrell Owens for best TD celebration (sample of the ole glory days) and was regarded as the best WR in the game. From 2003-2009 Smith posted an Impressive average of 1035 yards. Impressive considering he was always on run first offenses and that 1035 yard average includes the 2004 season which he totaled just 60 yards due to a season ending injury week 1. Throw out that lost season and his average rises to just under 1300 yards per season. Whenever he has had competent QB play Smith has ranked amongst the best WR's in the league in Fantasy and reality. Finishes of 1st, 3rd and 5th in fantasy scoring at the WR position. Steve Smith has never been considered a prototypical receiver, standing 5'9" 185 lbs, but Smith is a relentless competitor. Never taking a play off, playing with heart and a fiery passion for the game. Last year, Smith being his own worst critic, declared himself no longer a number one WR due to his lack of production. His lack of production was not due to his ability, but his team and QB situation. The Panthers ranked dead last in passing yards with just 143 ypg due to Jimmy Clausen's complete confusion at the QB position. He was lost and erratic the entire season. Smith still has elite ability as shown by his 178 yard 2 TD outburst last week (not including a 41 yarder called back). With a new QB and new Head Coach Smith's career is resurected. One might say he's baaaaaaaack. Offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski has stated "Steve Smith is the passing game's primary thought on every pass attempted by Cam Newton". With Smith's ability and Newton looking to him early and often, forcing it up to him and giving him every chance to make a play Smith holds monster upside for the remainder of the season. The Panthers offense will often implicate 2 TE sets (Jeremy Shockey and Greg Olsen) to help establish the run game and press the seams of the defense drawing attention from safetys. Newton has a very strong arm and due to their good run game, his threat as a runner and the skill set both their TE's hold Smith will find himself in more one on one opportunitys than any other eliter WR in the league. Play action deep to Smith will be a lethal play, producing big chunks of yards and quick scores. It's very possible Steve Smith ends the season as a top 10 or even 5 WR.

2011 will be The Year of THE Panther