The Panthers find themselves up against the wall again this week. While they exceeded all expectations against the Cardinals, they face a far tougher opponent on Sunday when they visit the Texans.
Here are four stories to follow throughout the game.
Will lightning strike twice for Kyle Allen?
Allen may have looked like Joe Montana in Arizona, but remember that he was facing one of the worst teams in the NFL and playing in front of a relatively friendly home-town crowd. Allen also went up against the Saints when they were resting their most important players for the playoffs in Carolina’s Week 17 win last year. So, while his stats are undeniably impressive and he’s technically undefeated, Allen hasn’t had to matchup against a real playoff-caliber team as a starter yet. Houston presents a true challenge. The Texans have one of the most ferocious defensive front sevens in the sport, so Allen will have to continue using his feet to buy more time.
The offensive line shakeup
The main reason Allen has to stay on the move is the Panthers offensive line, which has been an utter disappointment thus far this season. Heading into Week 4, Carolina has the lowest pass block win rate in the league. It’s not just Daryl Williams struggling as expected, either. Matt Paradis, Taylor Moton and the rest all have to step their game up. An added obstacle this week is Trai Turner likely being ruled out with an ankle injury. That means Ron Rivera will probably move Williams inside to right guard and give Greg Little his first start at left tackle. How he does in pass protection will have a huge impact on who wins and who loses.
Brotherly love: Eric Reid vs. Justin Reid
Technically they won’t be on the field at the same time, but this game offers an alluring sibling matchup. Eric Reid’s younger brother Justin is the starting free safety for the Texans and he has many of the same qualities that make Reid a solid DB. Eric told reporters earlier this week that Justin has never beaten him in anything and he’s not about to start now.
Carolina’s defense vs. the Deshaun Watson show
Finally, if Panthers fans need a ray of hope heading into a daunting matchup, they should be mindful of how well the defense has played. Through three weeks, Carolina is tied for second in sacks and is only allowing 295.3 yards per game, fourth-lowest in the NFL. Their pass rush and pass coverage have both been excellent considering the competition. Watson is by far the most talented quarterback that they’ll face in the first half of this season, though. If they can manage to shut him down the Panthers can claim to have an elite defense.
