5 Panthers players who must produce at the Cardinals in Week 10
By Dean Jones
Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers RB
It was an encouraging return from injury for Christian McCaffrey against the New England Patriots. The running back went over 100 yards from scrimmage and was allocated just 18 combined touches, which was the right call by the Carolina Panthers following his five-game absence.
McCaffrey might have more on his plate this weekend at the Arizona Cardinals.
If the Panthers are to stand any chance of keeping this one close, then keeping Arizona’s high octane offense off the field is the best way to go about things. That means keeping the chains and the clock moving and McCaffrey’s ability to generate yardage is a key component to any success that comes Carolina’s way.
With backup P.J Walker set to start at quarterback – although Cam Newton might also see some time on the field in special packages – the onus will be on McCaffrey to set the tone and dictate the tempo.
The Cardinals will be all-too-aware of this threat and boast a tremendous defense across all levels. McCaffrey might not break off big gains on every down, but it’s essential that the Panthers don’t go away from the run and pile additional pressure on Walker’s shoulders.
If the game gets out of hand, then take McCaffrey out.
Better the former first-round pick lives to fight another day. Especially considering Newton will be starting in Week 11 against the Washington Football Team.