4 key matchups for the Panthers vs. Cardinals in Week 4

D.J. Moore vs. Patrick Peterson

It has been a frustrating start to the season for D.J. Moore. There have been plenty of memorable highlights, but it is clear that more will be needed going forward.

The Carolina Panthers need to get Moore involved, especially in the absence of Christian McCaffrey. They got away with it at the Chargers in Week 3 and it would be prudent for offensive coordinator Joe Brady to make the most out of their most gifted all-around receiver for the remainder of the campaign.

Moore was relatively anonymous at SoFi Stadium barring a deep ball from Teddy Bridgewater in the second half. The former first-round pick will have his hands full this Sunday against Patrick Peterson, who is an experienced campaigner who can shut receivers down at the drop of a hat when firing on all cylinders.

Although Peterson might be past the peak of his powers at this stage of his career, there is nothing to suggest he cannot still perform at a high level. He could be tasked with shadowing Moore and letting the younger, speedier corners on the Cardinals cope with going down the field with Robby Anderson.

This represents a stiff challenge for Moore. However, he has more than enough talent at his disposal to overcome Peterson consistently, providing he gets a larger volume of targets from quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.