If you were looking to get a game-action glimpse of the Panthers’ starters during Sunday’s preseason opener, you’ll have to wait a little longer. After Friday’s second joint practice with the Colts, Matt Rhule said he doesn’t plan to play his 1’s when Carolina travels to take on Indianapolis.
“Mainly our 2’s and 3’s will play. There might be some 1’s that play. We will sit down tomorrow and finish laying out the game plan of who’s healthy and who will play,” Rhule said. “This year is different. We’re cutting down to 85 on Tuesday. I want to make sure that all 90 guys who are healthy have a chance to put it on tape, so we make the right and appropriate decisions.”
Rhule specifically mentioned that Sam Darnold will not take any snaps Sunday, adding that he doesn’t want to risk injury by having him play behind a second string offensive line. PJ Walker will get the start at quarterback.
The Panthers preseason opener against the Colt will kickoff Sunday at 1pm.