The Carolina Panthers are set to take on the Baltimore Ravens in their second preseason matchup. This is a great opportunity for Matt Rhule and the coaching staff to evaluate the entire roster. Carolina is a young team that needs to gain experience. The preseason is a great place to do just that.
This team is a young squad so the preseason is important for development. We should see a mix of starters and depth players seeing the field, as the coaching staff must choose the best possible roster for the season. The Carolina Panthers could look competitive in this matchup on Saturday night.
Look for the offensive line to possibly step their game up, as winning the trenches will give Carolina an edge. Christian McCaffrey is the obvious starter in the backfield, but a young prospect could make his case to be the immediate backup. Additionally, we might see a solid display of the passing game, as a prospect receiver should connect with the quarterbacks. With that said, here are four bold predictions for the Panthers' preseason matchup against the Ravens.
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4. The offensive line steps up
The game is won in the trenches and the Carolina Panthers have made numerous moves to improve the offensive line. They have a real test against the Ravens, as Baltimore has an elite front seven that can cause mayhem. If the Panthers' offensive line can put on a solid performance, it will build confidence for the regular season.
3. Chuba Hubbard makes a case for the backup role
Chuba Hubbard won't be the starting running back for the Panthers. However, if he puts on another strong showing, he could become the immediate backup. Carolina was without their superstar running back last year due to injury. Mike Davis stepped up and played a vital role in their offense. Matt Rhule may look to give McCaffrey a break from time to time, making Saturday's game a great opportunity for Chuba Hubbard.
2. Terrace Marshall Jr. shines again
Terrace Marshall Jr. has looked like one of the best rookie receivers so far in the preseason. He's in a position to serve as the third receiving option behind DJ Moore and Robby Anderson. The Ravens have a stellar secondary which will be a great challenge for the rookie wide receiver. Look for Terrace Marshall Jr. to continue making plays for the Panthers' offense.
1. Sam Darnold looks promising
We saw PJ Walker play well under center in the Panthers preseason opener. Now it's Sam Darnold's turn. After struggling with the New York Jets, Darnold has a new opportunity in Carolina. Matt Rhule and the coaching staff seem to be excited about Darnold's potential. Darnold has been slowly improving his quarterback play throughout the offseason, which bodes well for his chances this year. Look for Sam Darnold to show off his skills, as he'll be going up against a tough Ravens defense to prepare for the regular season.
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