The Panthers play a critical division game today at home against the Falcons. They’ve lost six of their last seven matchups against Atlanta.

If they’re going to stop that trend, here are four things they’ll need to do.

1. Find a way to stop the run

Carolina’s run defense has gone from problematic to full-blown disaster. No team is allowing more yards per carry this season (5.2) and they are ranked dead last in rush defense DVOA. The good news is that the Falcons have a pretty pathetic run game and they’re down to their No. 3 running back in Brian Hill. If coach Ron Rivera can’t find a way to contain the run today, then there may be no hope of turning this around in 2019.

2. Keep the D.J. Moore train moving

On offense, the Panthers have not found much consistency this season outside of Christian McCaffrey. Over the last two weeks wide receiver D.J. Moore has caught fire, though. He’s caught 16 of 21 targets, totaling 221 yards. Kyle Allen needs to continue looking for No. 12, especially since he’s been out of rhythm with his other receivers.

3. Don’t let Julio Jones beat you

When the season began, Atlanta had about as many weapons on offense as any NFL team. Injuries and trades have depleted their options, though. With Mohamed Sanu suiting up for the Patriots and Devonta Freeman and Austin Hooper both out with injuries, they need somebody else to step up. The Panthers have to make sure that Jones isn’t the one to do it. James Bradberry has done a good job containing No. 11 the last few years and has to keep that dynamic going. If Calvin Ridley is going to go off, so be it. Carolina can’t let Jones have another 300-yard day as he did in 2016.

4. Tighten up in the red zone

In addition to being an awful run defense team, the Panthers haven’t been able to stop their opponents in the red zone, either. They have the No. 32-ranked red zone defense in the league this season. The Falcons are mediocre in this area – they rank No. 16 in red zone scoring.

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