Dramatically Improved Defense Key To Cats' Win

A dramatically improved defense was the key to the Panthers' 20-17 win over the Washington Redskins on Sunday afternoon.Under heavy criticism for their lackluster play in the team's first three games, the much-maligned Carolina defense responded with a solid performance on Sunday, shutting the Redskins down repeatedly in key situations.The Cats allowed a couple of short-field touchdowns and a field goal, but held Washington to just 74 rushing yards and only 198 total yards in the game.Newly-acquired defensive tackle Hollis Thomas was a major factor in the game as the big run-stopper played a huge role in shutting down the Redskins' running game.Linebackers Jon Beason and Thomas Davis and strong safety Chris Harris are now 100% for the first time all year and enjoyed fine games as well as did defensive end Julius Peppers and defensive back Richard Marshall.Here's a quick look at some of the numbers those guys put up on Sunday:Beason: eight tackles, two assists, and on...