3 Panthers position groups that must step up vs. the Eagles in Week 5

Carolina Panthers OL

After four weeks, the same storyline continues to present itself. The offensive line is by far the weakest link of the Carolina Panthers offense.

Games are won and lost at the line of scrimmage. Linemen are the one group tasked with making contact with an opposing player every play. They need to open holes for the run game and form a well-defended pocket for Sam Darnold in the passing game.

Sadly, this has not been the case. Jaycee Horn should turn out to be a solid draft night pickup, but that meant leaving Rashawn Slater on the board.

Coming into the season, Pro Football Network ranked the line as the 31st best group. Based on four weeks of data and the eye test, it seems about accurate.

Darnold has been forced to scramble too often, been sacked 11 times, and thrown five interceptions. With adequate protection, the signal-caller has the ability to find an open receiver and move the ball downfield.

Six-time Pro Bowler Fletcher Cox will be anchoring the Philadelphia Eagles defensive line ready to disrupt the offense. In addition, starting left tackle Cam Erving will not be suiting up – so it is time for Brady Christensen to exhibit why he was the No. 70 overall selection out of BYU.

The offensive line must show they are better than the sum of their parts to keep drives moving down the gridiron.