Here's a post on the Panthers Top 5 keys to the upcoming season. Though the article hits on some obvious concerns the Panthers will have I think it misses the mark a little in correctly identifying the top keys. The top 5 keys are listed as (improve kick-offs), RDE, #2 WR, RG, kick returns apparently in no particular order. I think the concerns on the offensive and defensive lines are bigger than just one position. I also don't think getting a few more yards on kick-offs is that big of a deal.

So of course I can't help but put up my own list. Here's my Top 5:

5. Jake' Elbow Must be Healed

This is obviously the most important issue for the Panthers to have a great season but its also one that I'm growing less concerned about as we approach training camp. All signs indicate The Elbow is healed and stronger than ever. If Jake returns to form the Panthers passing offense will once again have teeth.

4. Improved Kick Returns

The Panthers have been terrible at this the past two seasons. Though Ryne Robinson showed improvement last season I'm not ready to think he could be one of the top 10 Returners in the league, and that's just what the Panther need. Remember the days with Michael Bates and the excitement of anticipating a long run back? We also need to avoid mistakes on our returns, such as penalties and turnovers (remember the Houston game?). I think the Panthers would be ecstatic for a Top 15 position in this category unfortunately. Lets hope the Panthers learn to block on kick returns this TC.

3. #2 WR Threat

I'm not so concerned with identifying a clear #2 WR as I am just getting a combination of players that serve the same role: develop some kind of threat opposite Smitty. With Muhammad, Hackett, King, Rosario, Jarrett and D-Will out of the backfield the Panthers have to make the defense pay for double teaming Smitty. There's been some question as to whether Hackett can and will be a deep threat. That may not be his forte and if so then who else will be a deep threat? It could be Robinson or even Jason Carter. I think who ends up getting the most passes their way on a given Sunday (besides Smitty) will depend on the individual match-ups and who is on a roll. Regardless, the result has to be the same, get the double and triple teams off of Smitty or make them pay for doing it.

2. Generate a Pass Rush

I think the Panthers could still make the playoffs without a big pass rush but they won't go far without one. The issue is bigger than just finding a compliment to Peppers at DE. I don't really care who gets the sacks. If it's a DT, DE, LB or safety it all results in the same thing. Even if Brayton or Johnson don't put up the numbers if others do then who cares. Early last season I was critical of the Panthers for being too conservative on defense, relying on the front four too much to get pressure. I don't think they can do that this season. They will have to mix up the scheme a little more, run more blitzes and yes, take more chances. Hopefully rookie Charles Godfrey will develop enough to give DC Mike Trgovac the confidence the Panthers won't get beat deep. Given the speed and depth we have at LB I would like to see more LB blitzes from the likes of Landon Johns or Jon Beason.

1. Offensive Line must gel

We are all assuming the offensive line will be improved this season but honestly we're putting a lot of faith on five guys who have all been moved to new positions or are new to the team. To expect them to perform at a high level after eight weeks of work is asking a lot. We know on paper they should be much improved be we have to see it on the field. If they don't gel then that could really affect items 3 and 5 above. And that vaunted running game we are expecting? That could become a pipe dream as well. If this line struggles then the whole offense struggles and that puts pressure on the defense. If you doubt what I say then just rewind the 2006 season. Remember it was OL injuries that was our main excuse for not making the playoff then. It could again be our downfall if certain players as Otah and Kalil fail to make the jump to the Pro level. We're relying on a journeyman at RG and the other two positions will be manned by guys moving positions. Sorry for being so negative but it's the truth. In the end I think the line will be one the better OL's in the league, it will just take a few games to get things going.