North Charlotte Today

The Panthers are set to face the Bengals at home this weekend. After securing their first win last week, Carolina stands at 1-2, while Cincinnati remains winless at 0-3. This game marks quarterback Andy Dalton's fourth encounter with his former team as a starter, having won two of the previous three matchups.

"I know we're heading in the right direction as the communication gets clearer and louder. That's what Friday is all about," stated Dave Canales following the week's final practice.

The Panthers have a historical record of 3-3-1 against the Bengals, with three wins at home and no victories on the road. The Bengals are notably the only team Carolina has ever tied in franchise history.

With Adam Thielen placed on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury, rookies Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker will step up. Legette had two receptions for 42 yards against the Raiders, while Coker has impressed coaches during practice.

"He's done a phenomenal job," said offensive coordinator Brad Idzik regarding Coker's performance in practice.

Despite their current record, linebacker Shaq Thompson emphasizes that they must focus on playing against a strong Bengals roster rather than their win-loss tally.

"We've got to understand we're not playing the record," Thompson said. "We're playing the Bengals, who have high-power weapons wherever you look."

A significant challenge for Carolina will be containing Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase. The duo has connected for 16 receptions on 18 targets for 215 yards and two touchdowns over three games.

"You just play football; you line up compete and you want to be on the winning side of it," commented Jaycee Horn about facing top-tier receivers like Chase.

On defense, Nick Scott will replace Jordan Fuller (hamstring), who was placed on injured reserve this week. Rookie Demani Richardson may also see some action.

The Bengals will miss veteran tackle Trent Brown due to injury, giving rookie Amarius Mims his first start. Despite limited playing time so far this season, Burrow expressed confidence in Mims' abilities.

"I have a lot of confidence in him," Burrow told reporters about Mims. "He had a good camp; he's a smart player."

Panthers defensive lineman Nick Thurman noted that despite missing Brown, Cincinnati's offensive line remains strong.

"That's the strength of their offense," Thurman said.

Carolina's offensive line might also see changes due to injuries. Left guard Damien Lewis is out with an elbow injury, and right guard Robert Hunt is questionable with a hip concern. Chandler Zavala will replace Lewis, while Brady Christensen may step in if Hunt cannot play.

"Excited about an opportunity for these guys," Canales remarked regarding potential lineup changes at guard positions.

Canales assured that any changes would not affect their game plan significantly. The Panthers' offensive line currently holds one of the best pressure rates in the NFL through three weeks.

Running backs Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders could benefit from creating lanes against a defense known for making contact behind the line but allowing significant yards after contact.

According to Next Gen Stats, Cincinnati's defense contacts rushers behind the line of scrimmage at one of the highest rates but allows substantial yards after contact on inside runs this season.