5 key observations from Carolina Panthers 2022 preseason finale vs. Bills
By Dean Jones
What were some key observations from the Carolina Panthers during their 2022 preseason finale against the Buffalo Bills at Bank of America Stadium?
The Carolina Panthers rounded off their preseason schedule with a home clash against the Buffalo Bills. Even though Sean McDermott’s men rested the majority of their starters, it was still a good chance for the hosts to put in a good performance in front of their passionate fanbase before preparations gear up for the eagerly-anticipated season opener versus the Cleveland Browns.
Matt Rhule gave his starters more reps than they’ve seen in warmup games so far. This comes after plans were finally confirmed at critical positions such as the offensive line and announcing Baker Mayfield as the team’s quarterback in 2022.
Key personnel within the Panthers will now finalize their roster and who could potentially come through onto the practice squad. And it’s pivotal the correct calls are made ahead of a crossroads campaign for the franchise.
With that being said, here are five key observations from the Panthers’ final preseason game against the Bills at Bank of America Stadium.
Key Observation No. 1
Carolina Panthers suffer blow at the kicking position
Having stability at kicker was a refreshing change for the Carolina Panthers in 2021 thanks to the flawless consistency of Zane Gonzalez. The former seventh-round selection was handed a deserved extension this offseason, but he went down with a suspected groin problem warming up on the sidelines that throws a wrench into the team’s plans.
The official prognosis is bleak for Gonzalez. The Panthers will be forced into the free-agent market over the first few weeks of the campaign and possibly beyond that depending on what medical specialists decide.
Not exactly ideal considering the impact Gonzalez made in such a short space of time.