Panthers vs. Dolphins: Preseason Game 2 Preview
The Carolina Panthers begin a new era at Bank of America Stadium on Friday…
Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton began preseason play with six pass completions on nine attempts for 84 yards. He didn’t record a touchdown but after enduring four games last season throwing two passes in one appearance, seeing a healthy Newton was a welcome sight.
The Panthers offense showcased some familiar components as new offensive coordinator Norv Turner continues to add his wrinkles into the mix. Backup quarterback competition remains fierce as both Taylor Heinicke and front-runner Garrett Gilbert threw touchdown passes and this week provides another opportunity.
Miami enters Bank of America Stadium on the heels of a 26-24 loss to NFC South rival Tampa Bay in their preseason debut. The Dolphins took a lead just under the two-minute warning with a touchdown and successful two-point conversion, but their defense couldn’t hold as Buccaneers kicker Chandler Catanzaro connected on a 26-yard field goal for the win.
The Panthers routed Miami, 45-21, last year on Monday night in Week 10 of the regular season but both teams have undergone more than a few changes since. As each prepares for 2018, expect to see many reserves battle it out in the first Panthers home game of the season.
2018 PRESEASON: CAROLINA PANTHERS (1-0) vs. MIAMI DOLPHINS (0-1)
KICKOFF: Friday, August 17 at 7:30 PM ET
TV: WCCB (Local) with Saturday (8/18) replay on NFL Network at 6:30am
ONLINE: FuboTV Watch over 67 live sports and entertainment channels with a 7-day FREE trial!
LOCATION: Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte, NC)
WEATHER: 80 degrees, 74% humidity, 8mph WSW wind, 50% precipitation
LAST MEETING: 45-21, PANTHERS – November 13, 2017 (WEEK 10)
WHAT TO WATCH:
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When the Dolphins and Panthers meet on Friday expect a battle of mainly reserve players and those contending for roster positions. For Carolina, this includes a few key starting positions as both left guard and cornerback remain extremely fluid.
Buffalo targeted starting corner Kevon Seymour numerous times in last week’s contest as former Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin exploited the size difference and failures in coverage from the third year cornerback.
On offense, Greg Van Roten was given the start ahead of rookie Brendan Mahon at guard but both initially appeared up to the task. Against a revamped defensive line in Miami, these two should expect plenty of opportunities for proving themselves in game two.
Along with a number of other Panthers hoping to earn a position, including all three backup quarterbacks, this preseason game should provide a solid test and some good film for coaches as they begin to make decisions and formulate the 53-man roster.
All eyes will also be firmly focused on midfield. For years, the NFL shield logo has adorned the field inside Bank of America Stadium but with a new owner this could change. The team may be waiting for the regular season home opener against Dallas to unveil a new midfield logo, but their intentions will be disclosed if the fifty yard line remains blank on Friday night.
Next. Training Camp Lessons Learned. dark
The Panthers will be at home next week against the New England Patriots on Friday (8/24) night.