5 years agoThe Panthers added Gerald McCoy to their defensive front this offseason which was a huge addition to the unit. The Rams offensive line has some new faces in its interior after losing guard Roger Saffold to the Titans in free agency and declining center John Sullivan's 2019 option. The Rams new-look offensive line could be tested early and often by the Panthers defensive front which features McCoy, Dontari Poe, Kawann Short, Mario Addison and Bruce Irvin. Continuity on the offensive line is a big deal in the NFL, and if the Rams line struggles early, the Panthers defensive line could really disrupt Todd Gurley and the Rams running game. Panthers cornerback Donte Jackson played well last year and has some serious speed, so it will be interesting to see if he can keep up with Rams wide receiver Brandin Cooks. Panthers cornerback James Bradberry should line up on Robert Woods most of the game and Ross Cockrell should line up on Cooper Kupp in the slot. The matchup to watch here is Kupp against Cockrell as we will see if Kupp returns to form after ACL surgery. Even though the Panthers may be able to exploit the interior of the Rams offensive line, the Rams simply have too many weapons and head coach Sean McVay is too good of a play-caller not to put points on the board, making the Panthers Defense a poor Week 1 option.--Mike Riggall - RotoBaller
Source: Tim Weaver - Panthers Wire