The Carolina Panthers’ interior offensive line has lived up to its gritty nickname, “Mean, Tough, & Nasty,” becoming a dominant force in the trenches this season. With Austin Corbett, Damien Lewis, and Robert Hunt leading the charge, the Panthers have allowed the fewest pressures in the NFL, showing why this trio is a critical asset in the team’s success.
During the off season Damien Lewis let the media know what to expect from this group. “You’ve gotta have that mindset, that warrior mentality. Mean, tough and nasty,” Lewis said. “I’m mean. Austin’s tough. Rob’s nasty.“ They sure have been through Week 4 of the NFL season.
One of the most impressive feats this season has been the line’s near-flawless pass protection. The Panthers have surrendered just 16 pressures across 149 pass plays, ranking them first in pass-blocking efficiency with a 94.3 score, according to Pro Football Focus. Austin Corbett has been a standout, allowing a league-low pressure rate of just 0.6%. His ability to neutralize opposing defensive linemen has given Carolina’s quarterbacks more time in the pocket, a luxury few teams can boast.