4 Panthers players who need to step up at the Chiefs in Week 9

Teddy Bridgewater – Carolina Panthers QB

There will be no member of the Carolina Panthers with more pressure on his shoulders during the second half of the season than Teddy Bridgewater. The quarterback has performed well against some tough opposition on the schedule so far, but there are some who still need convincing that he is the right man for the job long term.

This is a strong measuring stick for Bridgewater, who will be pitting his skills against the best in the business, Patrick Mahomes. While the Chiefs’ signal-caller possesses far superior skills, if the former Louisville standout can move the chains efficiently and make the most out of every red-zone opportunity, it will do the Panthers’ chances the world of good.

Bridgewater can relax in the knowledge that little is expected of Carolina in this one. The quarterback has lost both games in which the Panthers have been favored this season and the team, in general, seems to be playing better in the role of underdog through eight weeks.

Their backs will be against the wall at the Chiefs, so it is vital that Bridgewater and others use this to their advantage. Momentum might end up going in the other direction against high-quality opposition once again. But if the Panthers can generate any positives from the game, it’s going to be a bonus.

Carolina knows what they’re getting out of Bridgewater. Whether that will be enough to do the business in Kansas City remains to be seen.