Panthers wideout Steve Smith doesn’t forget a man that breaks his arm.
“I’m going after him,” Smith told SI’s Peter King in reference to Giants safety Michael Johnson, who injured Smith in Week Sixteen last year with a big-time hit.
It’s a game full of payback storylines. The Panthers embarrassed the Giants 41-9 in the team’s final game at their old stadium. With a trip to Indianapolis looming in Week Two, the G-Men don’t want to start the season slowly.
Smith’s availability won’t help the G-Men’s chances, but the wide receiver has no doubt that he’ll be ready for the season opener against New York.
“I’d bet my game check on it,” Smith said.
Next stop for Smith after dispatching Johnson? Find the dude that broke Smith’s arm playing flag football.
UPDATE: Here’s a look at the Panthers offseason, while we’re at it.