5 big changes the Panthers should consider at the Cowboys in Week 4
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers involve Terrace Marshall Jr. more
The Carolina Panthers clearly felt trading Dan Arnold in order to acquire cornerback C.J. Henderson from the Jacksonville Jaguars was a risk worth taking. Even if it does leave them a little short of a true pass-catching option across the middle or in the red zone.
Arnold began his career in Carolina encouragingly and seemed to be on the same page with Sam Darnold. But the need for a potentially outstanding corner was perhaps greater and especially considering how high the Panthers were on Henderson during the 2020 draft evaluation process.
Asking the inconsistent Ian Thomas or rookie Tommy Tremble to acquire additional responsibility is a risk. However, the Panthers should also contemplate getting wide receiver Terrace Marshall Jr. more involved at the Dallas Cowboys regardless.
Marshall’s presence in the passing game is rising gradually. As is his chemistry with Darnold.
The second-round pick out of LSU has the physicality and athleticism that makes him a nightmare to cover. Especially for those in the slot that Marshall and Carolina might be able to exploit.
Dallas does have a star cornerback in Trevon Diggs, but it’s unlikely he’ll shift much from D.J. Moore throughout the contest. That makes it vital for offensive coordinator Joe Brady to exploit other matchups and there doesn’t appear to be many on the Cowboys’ roster that boasts the attributes to cope with Marshall.
It’s asking a lot of the wideout. But then again, it might be the making of him.