Well Panther fans lets address the elephant in the room.  We are hit with some serious injuries.  Kemo, Smitty, Beast-on, TD, and Godfrey are all starters to be bit by "the bug."  In John Fox's tenure, the only time's we have not had a winning/playoff season is when we were devastated by injuries.  But, hold on Chicken Little, the sky is not falling yet. 

"Linebackers Thomas Davis and Landon Johnson returned to practice Monday after being out for extended periods with injuries."  - David Scott, Insider the Panthers 

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Also Smitty is expected to return for the Eagles game, if not sooner.  Beason could also return against the Eagles, but with Conner backing him up, we probably will not risk bringing The Beast back to early.  Godfrey has a broken hand, which is not a very serious injury.  Speculation is that he maybe able to play against the Eagles, but I think Teal has a shot at pushing Godfrey for pt when he does return from injury (Sadly, Teal is the one guy in the secondary who can catch the ball). 

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We have not looked too good this pre-season, but lets also put things into perspective.  We played both games on the road, without key players, against good teams who we will be playing later in the REAL . . . uh. . . regular season.  The one big area of concern is the loss of behemoth blocker occupier Maake Kemoeatu. There is also light at the end of the tunnel here.  Hurney and the Panthers FO has been reportedly interested in several DT's around the league, although are NOT offering future draft picks. 

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With all this said, I still think we are a playoff contender.  I encourage you to stay with me and not jump ship yet.  After all, we have only seen the team play in 2 practice games.  We still have potential All-Pro's in Gross, DeAngelo, Smitty, Beason, and Peppers.  Along with potential Pro Bowlers Otah, Kalil, Wharton, Beef Stew, TD, Gamble and others.  I will be at our first home game this Saturday 8/29 against the Ravens.  This should be another good, tough, and entertaining game which will help prepare us for this season's schedule.  I will watch the team with expectation and as always cheer "Go Panthers!!"