It’s a well-worn adage that a defense can make its money on tips and overthrows. This particular ball, though, they call something a little different.
“He got the tip, I mean, or what was it,” Princely Umanmielen began, turning to Nic Scourton for the assist.
“Affected throws,” he exclaimed after he and Scourton remembered their coach’s phrase. “Yeah, he got the affected throw, you know, Pat affected the quarterback and (D.J.) was right there and able to get the interception.”
Regardless of how you want to classify it, though, the play was a pivotal moment.
Wonnum didn’t return it for any gain, but it helped swing momentum for the Panthers to attempt a rally. Dave Canales preaches turnovers all the time and the importance of winning that margin. The Cardinals were leading by 16 at that point. Another touchdown would’ve effectively ended any chance of a comeback. With the interception, though, the Panthers took back possession and drove downfield, capping the drive with a touchdown to make it 27-15.