Three Things to Watch For: Panthers at Giants

The Panthers were not ready to play last week in their preseason opener against the New York Jets. They fell 27-0 and showed absolutely nothing on offense. The coaching staff has liked the response from the team during this week's practices and feels better about tonight's game against the Giants.

What should we be watching closely in this one?

Offensive line (duh)

The o-line was a train wreck last week allowing five sacks, eight QB hits, and several pressures. Starting left tackle Ickey Ekwonu got beat badly twice which is concerning, so he in particular, needs a bounce back performance.

The right guard spot could also be won in this game. Head coach Frank Reich told reporters earlier this week that he is trending toward making a decision on that starting spot after this preseason game. Cade Mays is unavailable due to a neck injury, so we'll likely see a lot of fourth-round draft pick Chandler Zavala and undrafted free agent Nash Jensen.

Which receiver makes the most out of their opportunity?

Terrace Marshall Jr. (back), Damiere Byrd (hamstring), and Derek Wright (knee) are all out. With Byrd on injured reserve and Marshall reportedly out for a "couple weeks", the Panthers need someone to step up and make plays. For Shi Smith, Javon Wims, Gary Jennings, Josh Vann, and C.J. Saunders, this is their chance to kick the door open and make the roster.

Push from the d-line

Last week, Carolina struggled at the point of attack against what is considered to be a fairly weak Jets offensive line. Through nearly three quarters, they only generated two negative plays. They finished with five tackles for loss (one sack), but it wasn't a promising outing. I understand Carolina played without some key pieces in that front seven, but I'm sure Todd Wash and Ejiro Evero won't use that as an excuse.

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