5 Panthers players that can make a huge statement in Week 3 vs. Saints
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers players can make a huge statement during their Week 3 contest against the New Orleans Saints?
It’s time for the Carolina Panthers to put up or shut up. Sunday’s clash against the New Orleans Saints is a must-win in front of their home fans, who haven’t left Bank of America Stadium with the sweet taste of victory since the same fixture that took place in Week 2 of the 2021 campaign.
Just how the Panthers can bounce back at this early stage is anyone’s guess. Matt Rhule remains defiant in the face of significant adversity and the players are all rallying around their head coach following some severe media criticism.
The Saints will smell blood in the water despite losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last weekend. Dennis Allen looks to have a team primed to contend if everyone stays healthy, with the return of wide receiver Michael Thomas something that’s already made a massive difference.
With that being said, here are five Panthers players that must make a huge statement in Week 3.
Player No. 1
Marquan McCall – Carolina Panthers DT
With Bravvion Roy now on the reserve/injured list and Phil Hoskins suffering from a lack of form, the onus falls on Marquan McCall to become the primary backup to defensive tackle tandem Derrick Brown and Matt Ioannidis. A remarkable increase in responsibility for the undrafted free agent out of Kentucky.
McCall has caught the eye with limited reps over the opening fortnight. This followed an exceptional offseason that propelled the rookie from an afterthought onto the 53-man roster.
The Carolina Panthers have themselves a steal in McCall. Sunday’s game against the Saints represents another chance to make a significant statement in the face of a stout offensive line interior.