3 Panthers position groups that must step up at the Texans in Week 3

Which Carolina Panthers position groups must step up for the team to stay undefeated at the Houston Texans in Week 3?

At the conclusion of Week 2 of the 2021 NFL season, only seven teams remain undefeated. Through the first two games, the Carolina Panthers lead the league in defensive yards allowed at 380 after shutting down the Jameis Winston-led New Orleans Saints at Bank of America Stadium.

After only allowing 21 points to the New York Jets and Saints, the Panthers will make the trek to NRG Stadium for a Thursday night showdown against a team in search of identity while navigating distracting off-field issues surrounding star quarterback Deshaun Watson.

For the first time in a decade, the Houston Texans are without the presence of J.J. Watt anchoring the defensive line. No longer do they employ the services of DeAndre Hopkins after trading for David Johnson and picks in 2020.

Even without the two larger-than-life personalities, three-time Pro Bowler Watson is still one who can still sell tickets. Unfortunately, legal issues have prevented the Texans from allowing their signal-caller to see any field time.

Prior to these allegations, Watson made it known his desire of a trade which the Texans initially scoffed at.

The Panthers have been an imposing force on defense playing with aggression, speed, and swagger. Sam Darnold has put together back-to-back impressive starts thanks to an elevated cast around him.

Many pundits did not give Darnold a chance when news of this trade broke, but he is showing a change of scenery, scheme, and trust in his abilities was worth the cost.

Who must step up in Week 3 to move to 3-0? Let’s check it out.