4 big Carolina Panthers storylines to watch vs. the Saints in Week 3
By Dean Jones
Can the Carolina Panthers contain Cameron Jordan?
Cameron Jordan might not have a sack over the opening two games, but taking the defensive end lightly would be foolish. Especially considering the All-Decade veteran attained 3.5 sacks the last time he came up against the Carolina Panthers.
Jordan will fancy his chances of adding to his 107 career sacks versus Ikem Ekwonu this weekend. The first-round selection has endured some expected growing pains in the face of stern opposition including Myles Garrett and Leonard Williams, so how he handles this latest tough test will go a long way to determining whether the Panthers can end their concerning slump.
Ekwonu looked pretty comfortable in Week 2 after getting a rude awakening from Garrett. He did give up a critical sack late on, but consistency should continue to improve with more reps on the edge moving forward.
Carolina’s offensive line looks to be much improved – especially on the interior with Austin Corbett, Brady Christensen, and even Pat Elflein looking the part so far. However, the New Orleans Saints will likely pile plenty of pressure on Ekwonu, and head coach Dennis Allen is one of the league’s brightest defensive minds.
The Panthers would be wise to allocate Ekwonu some help in certain situations. If the North Carolina State product can contain Jordan, then it might make all the difference.