Carolina Panthers: Week 16 keys to victory at Indianapolis Colts

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 16: Will Grier #3 of the Carolina Panthers looks on against the Buffalo Bills in the second half during the preseason game at Bank of America Stadium on August 16, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – AUGUST 16: Will Grier #3 of the Carolina Panthers looks to pass against the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter of their preseason game at Bank of America Stadium on August 16, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Key No. 1 – Protect QB Will Grier

Carolina’s offensive line has underperformed this season. They have given up the second-most sacks allowing their quarterback to be taken down 51 times.

If the Panthers expect to win this game, then they have to protect their rookie quarterback. Grier will be anxious and may try to rush his throws as it is. The last thing he needs is to be flustered with added pressure from the Colts defense.

McCaffrey will be relied on heavily throughout this game as always and can undoubtedly take a lot of the pressure off Grier by continuing to carry the offense.

The Panthers feature back will also be able to help Grier in the passing game by getting open on check-down plays. Grier will have to get the ball out quick to get in a rhythm and the short passing game is the best way to do that.

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