The Carolina Panthers thrived against the Seattle Seahawks thanks to a balanced offense. Cam Newton led the passing attack while Jonathan Stewart took care of things on the ground. That will need to be even better when they face one of the best defenses in the country with the Arizona Cardinals. Injuries are a factor for the Panthers heading into the NFC Championship game as Stewart's absence from practice is cause for concern.
According to Bill Voth of the Black and Blue Review, Stewart did not practice on Wednesday, but is still expected to play in the championship game on Sunday. Stewart has been dealing with a foot sprain that caused him to miss the final four weeks of the regular season. He looked fine against the Seahawks, but took it is easy in the second half. Head coach Ron Rivera stated that was simply because they are trying to preserve Stewart with the understanding that he will be critical against the Cardinals.
"We're just going to ease him back into action," Rivera said, via the Black and Blue Review.
The Panthers have done well getting all of their running backs action in games. Against the Seahawks, Mike Tolbert and Cameron Artis-Payne all got carries. Their development has been key for Carolina in the stretch of games with Stewart injured. The Panthers are also hopeful that Fozzy Whittaker can plan on Sunday after he returned to practice following an ankle injury. It is unclear just how ready he will be to play in the game against Arizona, but having the extra depth will not be bad for Carolina. With Ted Ginn Jr and Devin Funchess playing well for Cam Newton, the run game depth has been effecient enough to make up for time Stewart is off the field.
The run game is not the biggest concern for Carolina right now. The fractured foot to Jared Allen is the biggest worry for the team entering this game. The defensive star suffered the injury against the Seahawks, but has yet to be ruled out for the game against Carolina. Allen is the NFL's active sacks leader and a key part to Carolina's defense. Without him the unit takes a hit. Rivera stressed that Allen must prove he can be productive with the injury if he is going to play on Sunday.
"I don't want him thinking he's going to play no matter what," Rivera said, via ESPN.com. "I've got a group of guys I've got to get ready to play with or without him. I don't want to give any false indications either way, because I want these guys focused in on preparing for themselves."
Considering Allen was held out of practice, it is not looking good for the defensive end. That will put pressure on the rest of the defense to step up.
