The two teams faced each other during the regular season last year, which resulted in a Carolina Panthers victory. You may not remember the game so well, but I would wager you remember the silly “Tennessee Mom” drama that permeated the internet for the week after, like an old sweat sock that was lost in the bottom of your gym bag. Strangely enough, the Tennessee mom did not complain about the Titans Cheerleaders and their provocative performance. (slideshow here)
While I don’t expect the same level of drama Saturday, you never know. Cam Newton may have a special hip thrust rehearsed just for her.
Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers offense should see three or four series on the field Saturday. Ron Rivera stated earlier this week that he would like to see touchdowns out of that starting unit, not just field goals like in Baltimore a week ago.
Tight ends Greg Olsen and Ed Dickson will not play today. This gives a huge opportunity for several young players trying to make the roster. Keep an eye on Scott Simonson, in particular. He may be pushing for that second tight end position.
Expect a heavier work load for running backs Cameron Artis-Payne and Brandon Wegher this week. Both practiced with the first string offense this week which tells me that either, or perhaps both, will be put in the game early.
The Carolina Panthers second string offensive line had a very poor showing last week against Baltimore. As of now, the Panthers are still in the market for a backup offensive tackle. However, if this group performs poorly again this week, more jobs could be on the line. It would not shock me to see two new offensive lineman on the Carolina Panthers roster come September.
Rookie undrafted free agent Keyarris Garrett has shown big improvement since the first day of training camp. While I do not think he has a regular roster spot locked up, his improvement thus far does warrant consideration for the practice squad.
As a reminder, the score is not important Saturday. Don’t get caught up in preseason wins and losses. Instead, focus on individual performances. After all, that is all the Panthers coaches are looking at currently.
source: wcnc.com
