The Carolina Panthers continue their question for perfection as the team sits undefeated on the season with a marquee matchup against the New York Giants ahead of them. With playoff spot secured, the only thing that could end the team's season on a low note is injuries. While head coach Ron Rivera stressed that the Panthers would not take things easy in the final three weeks, injuries are already an issue as Jonathan Stewart will be out in Week 15.
According to head coach Ron Rivera via the Charlotte Observer, Stewart will not play in Week 15 after suffering a sprained foot against the Atlanta Falcons. The running back has been in a protective boot and seen on crutches. According to Rivera, it is all precautionary as the running back is expected to be fine, but the team wanted to hold him out just in case.
"We're going to be smart about it," Rivera said, via ESPN.com. "Doc's not necessarily concerned, but he does think the foot needs to be rested."
If the Panthers want to beat the Giants, they will have to do it without one of the leading rushers in the NFL. As a result, Rivera told the media that either Mike Tolbert for Fozzy Whittaker will replace Stewart for the week. Whittaker replaced the running back against the Falcons and seems like the likely choice while Tolbert should also see a good amount of work. According to Rivera, the Panthers will also see what they have in rookie Cameron Artis-Payne who has not seen much time on the field this season. He once led the SEC in rushing, but has been inactive for the past six games.
"This is a big opportunity for Cameron," Rivera said, via ESPN.com. "He's going to get some opportunities for sure. I'm excited about it. It's one of those things where we said when the time's right and Jonathan needs a break [Artis-Payne will get an opportunity], but Jonathan just kept rolling and rolling."
The Panthers are expecting to have Greg Olsen back on the field. The tight end suffered a knee sprain against the Falcons, but stressed that he should be fine to play. According to David Newton of ESPN, Olsen did not practice on Wednesday, but Rivera expects him to play. Olsen will be critical without Stewart on the field as both Devin Funchess and Ted Ginn Jr help Cam Newton as well.
