4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers vs. Saints in Week 3

Carolina Panthers return a punt or kickoff for a TD

These are bold predictions, right?

The special teams’ punt and kickoff return units have been underwhelming thus far. From shorter returns and muffed catches, opponents have used this facet of the game to flip the field, set themselves up for success, and give the Carolina Panthers long fields to cover.

With Andre Roberts on injured reserve, Shi Smith steps in for punt return duties while Chuba Hubbard will handle kickoff returns. Although one cannot rule out the prospect of recent signing Raheem Blackshear becoming involved at some stage if activated.

Smith, who clocked 4.46 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, has the speed and vision to bring the ball down the field. Hubbard also has ability in this area, but his fumble on the opening drive at the New York Giants did little to install confidence.

What better way to flip the momentum of a game and ease the pressure than to add points from special teams? A task the Panthers have found difficult since Matt Rhule became head coach and even beyond that.

The Panthers have not had a kickoff return or punt return for a touchdown since the 2017 season. It’s one of the more difficult things to accomplish, but that is a long time not to chalk-up points from this crucial area of play.

Five years later, the time is now.