Let's Talk About Another Team With Major Problems On Offense!

The Carolina Panthers were called by many to represent the NFC this year in the Super Bowl and while it is only week one, I'm here to tell you that it's not going to happen. They have some talented players on defense, but they also have some issues. Their starting linebacker, Dan Morgan, suffered his 5th concussion of his short NFL career and this will create some problems on that side of the ball.

The offensive side is where we must probe. Sensational Steve Smith was unconscious last year. However, in his game against the Minnesota Vikings this week, he was unstoppable with 11 receptions and 201 yards. He torched cornerback Fred Smoot and it looks like revenge is in order.

The problem for the Panthers, though, is that Smith has not played in a football game since last December in the NFC Championship game. Regardless of his talent, he is not going to be a factor without any practice time. You'd have to think twice before you do any heavy football betting on Carolina. Some experts would suggest that the Panthers will attempt to run the ball. However, in my opinion, their offensive line is in shambles.

They have one season-ending injury, another that could be significant, and a suddenly open competition at another spot. Two days after learning that starting left tackle, Travelle Wharton, would miss the rest of the season the Panthers added center Justin Hartwig to the injury report with a groin problem.

After yanking right guard Evan Mathis from the lineup in the second half of Sunday's loss to Atlanta, Coach John Fox said the position is up for grabs. When the Panthers play at Minnesota on Sunday the offensive line could have new faces.

The Panthers line will have to deal with two studs in Kevin and Pat Williams and a team that will be playing in the raucous MetroDome. Before I do any sports betting at my local sportsbook, the only question mark for me on Sunday is how the Vikings will respond after such an emotional win on the road. My answer is that this team is so afraid of another devastating off-field incident popping up that they are playing for their football lives.

Vikings roll!

Bob Acton

Sports Betting

About the Author

Bob is an experienced sports writer and handicapper, who has written for the sports industry for over 10 years. His years of writing for Sports Scene, sports consulting on 33 Made for Television and Major Motion Pictures and his work as an instructor at Pro Teach Baseball Academy, have made Bob a trusted and respected source in the sports world. Commercial-Free Programming: Just One of the Benefits of Satellite Radio

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posted by AaronJoy @ 1:49 AM 0 comments