North Charlotte Today

The Carolina Panthers are preparing for their upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons with a new look on both their offensive and defensive lines. Following a challenging match against the Chicago Bears, where five starters were injured, the team is focusing on recovery and strategy adjustments.

Rookie receiver Xavier Legette expressed his preference for late afternoon games, saying, "I like the later games. I get to relax my mind a little bit." As they face the 3-2 Falcons, attention is drawn to several key aspects of the game.

The Panthers' offensive line will see changes due to injuries sustained by center Austin Corbett and tackle Taylor Moton. Brady Christensen and Yosh Nijman are set to step in. Andy Dalton praised Christensen's versatility: "Brady is a good football player...he's going to be making calls and doing things."

On defense, Jadeveon Clowney's participation remains uncertain due to a shoulder injury. Coach Dave Canales mentioned that Shaq Lawson and Marquis Haynes Sr., currently on the practice squad, might be activated: "It's just a matter of getting eyes on them and feeling comfortable about them being ready to play football."

Stopping Falcons' running back Bijan Robinson is another focal point for Carolina. Robinson has been effective this season with 285 rushing yards and 151 receiving yards. His former teammate Jonathon Brooks noted Robinson's calmness under pressure: "You can't get in his head because he doesn't let it get to him."

Beyond Robinson, Atlanta boasts multiple offensive threats including KhaDarel Hodge who secured an overtime win against Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 5. Panthers corner Jaycee Horn acknowledged the challenge posed by Kirk Cousins joining Atlanta: "That brings a whole different dynamic."

The potential return of tight end Ian Thomas could bolster Carolina's offense as Tommy Tremble remains out due to concussion protocol. Canales highlighted Thomas' blocking capabilities: "He's a big powerful man...gives us versatility with what we can do with him."