Carolina Panthers at Cincinnati Bengals
- Jaycee Horn vs. Ja’Marr Chase
The disappointing injury suffered by Jaycee Horn early in his rookie campaign meant he was unable to emerge as a legitimate NFL star. Although there is nothing to suggest the second-year-pro cannot achieve this feat in 2022.
In order for Horn to take the leap many expect, there are some big-time obstacles to overcome. One of the most dangerous is Ja’Marr Chase, who burst onto the scene en route to an extraordinary first year in the pros to win the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year accolade.
Chase was always going to be good. But one would have been hard-pressed to envisage just what an impact the former LSU standout actually made right out of the gate.
With 81 receptions for 1,455 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, Chase immediately established himself as a prolific playmaker at the next level. His contribution also got the Cincinnati Bengals within touching distance of a shock Super Bowl before they were narrowly beaten by the Los Angeles Rams.
The Carolina Panthers will probably have a hard time coming away from this game with anything to show for their efforts. Even if Horn does restrict Chase’s influence, it might not be enough given how many improvements the Bengals have made to their playing personnel this offseason.