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Run the rock
With Cam Newton pressing and forcing throws into downfield coverage against Seattle, and the Cowboys owning the league’s best passing defense, this seems as good as time as any for the Panthers to re-commit to the running game. DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart are getting paid a lot of money to be role players. Given the comments of coach Ron Rivera and left tackle Jordan Gross this week, it seems likely the Panthers will do more between-the-tackles power running and less zone read.
Take what they give
The Cowboys, quarterback Tony Romo in particular, have been in a giving mood this season. The Panthers have not forced a ton of turnovers, but they’ve turned two of them into touchdowns. Having Luke Kuechly at middle linebacker in place of the injured Jon Beason (doubtful with a knee injury) should help the run defense. But the Panthers’ front four has to harrass Romo. Rookie cornerback Josh Norman has rebounded since getting torched by Eli Manning. He’ll need to be good, with veteran corner Chris Gamble out.
Finishing school
The Panthers came up a yard short in their past two losses, and continue to have trouble finishing games under Ron Rivera. Carolina hasn’t won in more than a month, and will be on the road the next two weeks against Chicago and Washington. Rivera has said he’s concerned about losing the fan base – and he can expect to see plenty of Cowboys fans at Bank of America Stadium. If the Panthers struggle, the boobirds will be back out again. Joseph Person
