The Carolina Panthers are already in must-win mode going into their Week 3 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.
Starting the season 0-3 would end any realistic hope of the team making the playoffs this year. If they’re going to avoid that fate, here are four guys who need to step up their game on Sunday.
QB Kyle Allen*
Cam Newton has not officially been ruled out yet, but it certainly sounds like Kyle Allen will be playing in his place this week. The last time Allen started for the Panthers, he looked sharp. Allen posted 228 passing yards, two touchdowns and a 111.3 passer rating in a win over the Saints in the last game of 2018. However, he struggled in the preseason. To add to the pressure, this is a homecoming game for Allen, who grew up in nearby Scottsdale, AZ.
OC Norv Turner
Allen will need help, though – particularly from his offensive coordinator. In Norv Turner’s defense, he’s drawn some brutal matchups this season. Wade Phillips and Todd Bowles are both two of the best at what they do. It won’t get any easier this week, either. Vance Joseph is now calling the plays for the Cardinals defense. While the unit is deficient in talent, they do have some potential game-wreckers that need to be accounted for. Above all, Turner has to play to Allen’s strengths and compensate for the pass protection problems.
LT Daryl Williams
Speaking of which, perhaps the single most critical matchup this week will come between left tackle Daryl Williams and the Cards’ sack champion, Chandler Jones, who posted 30 sacks over the last two years. Williams gave up three sacks to Shaq Barrett last week, and he’s nowhere near as disruptive as Jones. The Panthers will likely have to help Williams out with extra blockers and chips. Also, coach Ron Rivera has to be ready to give second-round pick Greg Little a chance if Williams shows he isn’t up to the task on the early possessions.
CB Donte Jackson
Carolina’s defense did a solid job last Thursday night, all things considered. One exception to the rule was second-year cornerback Donte Jackson, who got roasted in coverage by Chris Godwin more than once. The Cards have some serious talent at wide receiver, as well. Larry Fitzgerald naturally leads them with 217 receiving yards so far and Christian Kirk (146 yards) has proved potent, as well. Damiere Byrd ranks third with 87. If nothing else, this year’s No. 1 overall draft pick Kyler Murray has shown exceptional touch on his deep passes, so Jackson and the rest of the defensive backs have to be alert for long balls.
