Panthers preseason: 3 matchups to watch in Ravens clash

Donte Jackson vs Marquise Brown

It promises to be a critical season upcoming for cornerback Donte Jackson. The Carolina Panthers preseason schedule will be a good opportunity for him to hone his skills in readiness to possibly become the team’s long-term No. 1 player at the position in 2020.

He is projected to line up against second-year player Marquise Brown during their encounter against the Baltimore Ravens. The player showed glimpses of what he is capable of during his rookie campaign and it would be something of a surprise if the former Oklahoma standout did not take giant strides forward with another offseason to develop.

Brown provides a matchup nightmare for opponents with his superb route-running ability. He is sharp out of his cuts over intermediate routes and can stretch the field at will with supreme pace and confidence.

This will be Jackson’s final period of considerable time on the field before competitive action gets underway. In some ways, it is the perfect matchup for him heading into the season and one that would stand him in enormously good stead if he performs well.

Given the Ravens’ strength running the football, Jackson might be on an island for a lot of the matchup. If he struggles to live up to expectations, it would give Carolina’s fanbase an element of doubt as to whether the player can fill the void left by James Bradberry.

Both Jackson and Brown are exciting young talents. Having them matched up for the first half of this Panthers preseason game is going to be must-watch.