The Panthers travel to the Big Apple to take on the New York Giants in week two of the preseason, and after a disappointing week one outing against the Jets, here are three things to look for Friday night.
Drive
Frank Reich and company aren’t going to show their hands, so don’t expect fireworks on the offensive side of the ball. But even with a “vanilla” playbook, the Panthers need to move the ball. Last week against the Jets Bryce Young played three series – getting just one first down on the first series and going three-and-out on the next two. Depending on how things go you can expect the same amount playing time for Young against the Giants, but whether the drive ends in a touchdown or a field goal, getting into a rhythm and moving down field will be important.
Competition
With Austin Corbett still recovering from ACL surgery and Cade Mays nursing a neck injury, the right guard position is up for grabs with rookies Chandler Zavala and Nash Jensen competing for the spot. There was a lot of rotation at that position during last week’s matchup against the Jets, as the staff continues to figure out who will best fit in that role, but expect Zavala and Jensen to get the bulk of the snaps Friday in hopes that one will separate himself.
Flash
Yetur Gross-Matos has admittedly entered this season with a chip on this shoulder. The 2nd round pick in 2020 has yet to prove himself a consistent threat in pass rush situations – prompting Carolina to sign veteran Justin Houston who finished last year with 9.5 sacks and an interception as a member of the Baltimore Ravens. YGM played 27 defensive snaps last week, finishing with one tackle and two assists. It’s still the preseason, but Gross-Matos needs to flash more – hauling in a sack or at least a quarterback pressure in New York.
Kick-off for the Panthers vs Giants is 7pm. Click here for more game information.