4 sneaky threats the Panthers should watch at Saints in Week 7

Tre’Quan Smith – WR

There will be plenty of responsibility on the shoulders of Tre’Quan Smith against the Carolina Panthers with Michael Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders both unable to take part. The wide receiver has shown flashes of brilliance during his short career to date and whether he can step up to a more prominent role is up for debate.

Smith has been more involved in Sean Payton’s offense through their first five games, which was to be expected with Thomas missing every game since the season opener. This has resulted in 16 receptions from 21 targets for 184 yards and two touchdowns – encouraging production on an offense that gives the majority of touches to its star running back Alvin Kamara.

That being said, the will be more opportunities for Smith to use his eye-catching skill set against the Panthers. He has a nice size for an outside receiver and his route-running is improving. But it is going to be a stiff test of his credentials providing cornerback Donte Jackson is ready to go after missing a portion of practice this week with a toe injury.

Payton is a master at putting his offensive playmakers in the best possible positions to succeed. Their scheme might have to alter slightly without Thomas and Sanders, but Smith will need to be monitored closely by Carolina’s secondary wherever he lines up on the field.