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Panthers vs. Dolphins: Final thoughts

By Patrick Magoon

CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 17: Head coach Ron Rivera of the Carolina Panthers looks on against the Miami Dolphins during the game at Bank of America Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 17: Head coach Ron Rivera of the Carolina Panthers looks on against the Miami Dolphins during the game at Bank of America Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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Miami Dolphins v Carolina Panthers
CHARLOTTE, NC – AUGUST 17: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers runs for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the first quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

The Ground Game is Thriving

Second-year running back Christian McCaffrey was the star on offense. He took his first carry of the game 71 yards to the house. McCaffrey’s touchdown run gave the Panthers their first lead of the night.

If there was one word to describe McCaffrey’s performance last night, it would be efficient. When he gets the ball in open space, he is a hard player to tackle. McCaffrey’s quick bursts of speed and superior field of vision will have him breaking ankles all season long.

McCaffrey played well with the 15 touches he was given last night. Before the start of the preseason, I was concerned that 25-30 touches a game would be hard for him to handle. Now after watching his performance against the Dolphins, there isn’t a doubt in my mind that he will be successful with his new workload.

Related Story. Bold Predictions for Christian McCaffrey. light

The Panthers took control of the second half when they dominated the ground game. Two rushing touchdowns from Cameron Artis-Payne and Elijah Hood gave the Panthers a comfortable lead heading into the fourth quarter.

Former sixth-round pick Kenjon Barner had himself a day. He ran with a purpose, netting 72 yards on five carries. The Panthers finished the game with 226 rushing yards, tied for most in a preseason game since 2008.

As far as we know, the No. 3 running back role is still up for grabs. Hood, Artis-Payne and Barner are going to continue to fight for a spot on the 53-man roster for the remainder of the preseason.

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