5 Panthers players who need more reps over the next 3 games
By Dean Jones
Tyler Larsen – Carolina Panthers OL
The Carolina Panthers are dealing with some pretty substantial protection issues, especially on the interior. Chris Reed just isn’t up to the required standard at left guard and John Miller’s regression on the other side could result in another big overhaul in this particular area of the field in 2021.
One player that might see more in the way of action over the next three games is Tyler Larsen. Carolina’s offensive line depth has been decimated over the campaign, so slotting in the former Utah State standout at one of the guard positions and seeing how he gets on might be a solid way to go at this juncture.
If it doesn’t work, so what?
It’s not like Larsen could be any worse than the options currently starting.
Larsen is more of a center than a guard. But there’s nothing to suggest he cannot play the position if the Panthers choose to go in this particular direction. The veteran has been on the field for just six snaps in 2020 and given how the interior unit is protecting Teddy Bridgewater of late, a fresh replacement with a point to prove might bring a turnaround in fortunes.
Matt Rhule may not be looking to experiment down the stretch. But this positional group needs shaking up in no uncertain terms.