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Delhomme's starting job might be in jeopardy

Tuesday, October 27, 2009
(Updated 9:16 am)

CHARLOTTE (AP) — For the first time in seven years, Jake Delhomme is in jeopardy of losing his starting job.

After another abysmal performance Sunday left Carolina 2-4 and Delhomme with an NFL-high 13 interceptions, Panthers coach John Fox acknowledged he's contemplating benching Delhomme in favor of either Matt Moore or A.J. Feeley.

"I still believe Jake is our best quarterback. I have no reason to believe otherwise, truth be told," Fox said Monday. "But collectively we'll do whatever it takes for us to improve. What that is I can't honestly tell you at this second."

A day earlier, Delhomme threw three interceptions, two which were badly overthrown and directly led to 14 Buffalo points in the Bills' 20-9 win. The 34-year-old Delhomme, who received a lucrative contract extension in the offseason, can't seem to snap out of the worst stretch of his career.

It began when Delhomme threw five interceptions and lost a fumble against Arizona in the playoffs. Counting two lost fumbles this season, Delhomme has committed 15 turnovers and thrown only four touchdowns. His passer rating of 56.5 ranks 32nd in the league and Carolina's minus-14 turnover margin is by far the worst in the NFL.

Sunday's loss ended Carolina's two-game winning streak and left Delhomme seemingly stunned. He said he was "numb" and added it was a "crushing" loss after Carolina outgained Buffalo 425-167.

"Last night I was numb and right now, you watch the film — I've watched it three times already today — I think it's more frustration," Delhomme said Monday.

Delhomme stood in front of his locker with Arizona game tape under his arm vowing to prepare to start as always. He said he met earlier in the day with the Fox, but declined to reveal details.

"I think my confidence is high, but it's easy to say it," Delhomme said. "You've got to get it done. ... I'm not trying to play the victim. I'm the one pulling the trigger."

While Fox said he sees no difference in Delhomme's arm strength or delivery, he hinted Delhomme's psyche will play into his decision who starts in Sunday's playoff rematch with the Cardinals.

"We'll do whatever it takes for us to start developing some confidence in that phase of the game," Fox said.

Trouble is, the Panthers have few good options behind Delhomme, who has been Carolina's starter since Week 2 in 2003, when the relative unknown led the Panthers to a surprising trip to the Super Bowl.

Moore started three games as an undrafted rookie in 2007 when Delhomme was recovering from reconstructive elbow surgery. Moore's only appearance since was when he completed 6 of 11 passes for 63 yards and an interception after Delhomme was benched late in the season opener against Philadelphia.

"I feel ready if needed," Moore said. "But I think we're 100 percent behind Jake."

The Panthers signed the journeyman Feeley on Sept. 15 after Josh McCown was placed on injured reserve with knee and ankle injuries. Feeley has since been scrambling to learn the offense.

"Do I think I can go out there and manage the game and play? Yeah," Feeley said. "Do I have a grasp of the offense like the other guys? Obviously that's not the case."

Fox has remained firmly behind Delhomme in the past. As recently as a month ago he was asked if Delhomme was still the starter and replied, "Yes, with a capital Y."

Now Fox's tune has changed, and he brushed off questions Monday about keeping Delhomme twisting before deciding on his future.

"I think we need to do what's going to help us win," Fox said. "If that's Jake, I think he'll understand that. If it's not Jake, I think he'll understand that, too. Right now we're not executing as well in the passing game. I can't say it's all the quarterback. But we have to get that better."

Accompanying Photos

Chuck Burton (Associated Press)

Photo Caption: Carolina Panthers' Jake Delhomme scrambles past Buffalo's Chris Kelsay.

UP NEXT

Who: Carolina at Arizona

When: 4:15 p.m. Sunday

Where: University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, Ariz.

Records: Carolina 2-4, Arizona 4-2

TV/radio: WGHP-8/WTZK-101.1

Comments

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beach35

October 27, 2009 - 3:35 pm EDT

I don't understand why they don't sign Jeff Garcia. It makes absolutely no sense. He was cut after the first week by the Eagles because they had too many QB's. He can still play the position and would be much better than what we currently have. Do i need to call the Panther's offices and tell Marty's receptionist about Jeff Garcia?

At this point, Fox will not put Delhomme out there again, if he values employment. 18 interceptions now in his past 7 games including the play-off game. It's gone WAY past the "few tipped balls" excuse. Delhomme is just really bad, and putting him out there is an embarassment.

whyus

October 27, 2009 - 3:58 pm EDT

Fully agree. I guess once Panthers fans start to be "no shows" it will hit them in the pocketbook and they will bench him. Would still like to see Michael Vick scrambling around out there and throwing to Steve Smith.....what fun.

fisher

October 27, 2009 - 4:02 pm EDT

Alex Trebek is retiring?

TrueWords

October 28, 2009 - 10:52 am EDT

Michael Vick should have been the obvious choice from the beginning. Do we have to wait for the season to end to figure this out? We need HELP, if we want to remain a team or even think about a superbowl ring. And it's time the Carolina Panthers step up--and it won't be with Jake. :(

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