Win Probability Added: +18.29
NEP: +6.33
We've mentioned at length about the lack of consistency in this year’s version of the Carolina Panthers’ defense, but there have still been plenty of big flash plays to draw our eye. While the usual suspects are all having down seasons, defensive lineman Wes Horton had a surprising contribution in Week 15.
Right end Horton didn’t do anything pretty; this play wasn’t a flashy speed rush that turned the corner and shredded the passer, a la vintage Bruce Smith. No, Horton just walked the pulling Washington tight end back into the blindside of quarterback Kirk Cousins at the exact moment he was throwing. Horton disengaged and caught the ball on a lucky bounce, rolling just centimeters shy of the end zone. This set up a passing touchdown moments later by the Panthers, and it was a big swing in the game.