A move that was speculated for much of the week was finally announced this morning, as the Miami Doplhins have elected to start rookie QB Ryan Tannehill in Charlotte tonight. It's a move that was an issue of 'when', not 'if'– as the Dolphins look to sacrifice immediate gains, for long term development.
Matt Moore assumes a familar role as he's relegated to backup. Working against the Panthers second team shouldn't be a huge test for the veteran, especially based on how Carolina's depth played against the Texans last week.
Tannehill represents a unique challenge for the pass rush. Between Miami's West Coast Offense, and a tall, athletic QB, it will be a decidedly different test to the most statuesque Moore. The Panthers need to get on top of the OL quickly, and hopefully this is the week we finally see it all come together. This week Ron Rivera praised how Charles Johnson looked in camp, and preseason, but wasn't willing to extend the same courtesy to the other pass rushers.
The Panthers host the Dolphins tonight at 8PM EDT.