5 huge positives from Carolina Panthers dominant Week 7 win vs. Bucs

Bradley Bozeman’s first Carolina Panthers start

For the first time this season, the Carolina Panthers had to deploy a new offensive line combination. Through the first six weeks, they were the only team whose starters had played every snap.

When it was reported by the team on Saturday that starter Pat Elflein was headed to injured/reserve with a hip injury, fans were going to get their first prolonged look at Bradley Bozeman.

The former Baltimore Raven was acquired in free agency and was expected to be the starter. But after suffering a preseason injury Elflein was given the job, and to his credit, the veteran performed admirably.

Bozeman slotted into the role without an issue in Week 7. Matched up mostly with star defensive tackle Vita Vea, the college football national champion at Alabama held his own despite giving up a sack.

He was especially dominant in the run game, consistently getting movement at the line of scrimmage even when matched up with Vea. Something that brought a phenomenal 93.2 grade from Pro Football Focus.

Bozeman is only in Carolina on a one-year deal. But with Elflein out of action for the next three weeks at a minimum, there’s an opportunity for him to secure the job and gain an extension in the process.