Just when I had given up on the Panthers offense ever showing any spunk they throw out some 'razzle dazzle'.  

The Carolina Panthers shook up their game plan and San Francisco early during Sunday's contest, using receiver Steve Smith on the direct snap out of the shotgun formation, lining Smith up at running back and even trotting out the old "hook-and-ladder" play.

Coming from the Panther playbook it does constitute razzle dazzle though other teams may just call it common sense. The Panthers used the direct snap last season with DeAngelo Williams so this play is really nothing new. The difference is they finally realized they needed to snap it to WR Steve Smith. Getting RB DeAngelo Williams and WR Steve Smith more involved using misdirection plays isn’t trickery its smart coaching.

RT Jordan Gross agrees:

"I think with the spot we're in; (we decided to try) not necessarily trick plays but some unconventional things and some different looks," said offensive tackle Jordan Gross. "Take advantage that way; get the game going, get the offense running. It worked out well; it was fun."

Well alright, the Panther offense had fun this past weekend. It’s been a while since we had that feeling. I say we keep it going this coming week. By running these different plays involving our most dangerous offensive weapon it gives the Jaguars and Jack Del Rio that much more to plan for.

The Panthers offense will face a stout Jaguars defense in what is bound to be a real catfight (pun intended). The Panthers will need to deploy more misdirection and open a can of friskies on their ass! Or is that a bag of friskies? Either way, we’ll be digging in the Jags catbox this Sunday and leaving them a present!