Week 5 NFL Advanced Analytics Superstars

Tight End: Ed Dickson, Carolina Panthers

Ed Dickson, TE, Carolina Panthers

5 Receptions, 175 Yards, 5 Targets

Performance: 98, NEP: +14.45

In a performance we all saw coming, Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Ols... er, Ed Dickson was unstoppable on Sunday, with a Performance Ranking of 98. His 5-reception, 175-yard performance totaled more yards than he had in any of the past three seasons, and his previous game high in yards was just 79 back in 2011.

Dickson caught all of his five targets on the day, an impressive accomplishment in and of itself, especially considering his 9.7% drop rate from 2014-2016. Against the Detroit Lions he was a dominant force, running through the tackles of defensive backs and owning the middle of the field.

While it's likely we've seen the best game of his season (career?), the Panthers could certainly use another weapon in this passing game to help Cam Newton continue to regain his MVP form. His career progression would indicate that Dickson won't be that guy, but for at least one day, he was the X factor this team needed.

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