The Panthers have had some protection issues in losses to the Broncos and Vikings.
And in trying to buck that trend against a team far less able to pressure Cam Newton, they’re going to have to do it without left tackle Michael Oher.
The Panthers announced that Oher was out this week against the Falcons, with a concussion, which was presumably suffered in practice.
The Panthers will also be without running back Jonathan Stewart and defensive tackle Vernon Butler, but they knew that already. Defensive end Charles Johnson is questionable after a quad strain in practice.
But Oher’s absence will cause a big adjustment, as they’ll likely shift right tackle Mike Remmers to the left side and plug Daryl Williams in at right tackle. The alternative is using journeyman Donald Hawkins at left tackle and leaving Remmers in place, and coach Ron Rivera told reporters they’re still making a decision on how to progress.
The Falcons don’t have the same kind of pass-rush assets as other teams the Panthers have faced, but going in short-handed won’t help a team trying to even its record after a 1-2 start.