Coach John Fox is conservative. He looks for advantageous ball placement and for his defense to do a lot of the work. 
Offense
The Panthers are hoping that QB Jake Delhomme (86 ATT, 55 COMP, 624 YDS, 8 TDs, 1 INT), who underwent arm surgery, will be ready to go in 2008. Carolina drafted tough rusher Jonathan Stewart, a former Oregon Duck, to upgrade the running attack. DeAngelo Williams (144 ATT, 717 YDS, 5.0 AVG, 4 TDs) is a topflight rusher. Steve Smith (87 REC, 1,002 YDS, 7 TDs) is a first-rate receiver but he needs more good players around him. Work has been done on the offensive line, which last season was porous.
Defense
In 2007, the defense was average at best. It had just 23 sacks, placing it 31st. Changes have been made in the O-line, but it’s doubtful there’s been enough done to make a big enough difference. The linebacking unit, which is led by Jon Beason (140 tackles), is tough. Strong safety Chris Harris (96 tackles) is a fine player. Safety Charles Godfrey may start. If he does, the Panthers will need him to be consistent.
Special Teams
The special teams are for the most part weak. The coverage squads played poorly, letting opponents score often and quickly. The return units need underpinning and some guys on board who can put the peddle to the meddle. The field goal and punting units are topnotch, with John Kasay kicking field goals and Jason Baker punts.
Overview
Coach John Fox needs to produce this season or he may be without a job. QB Delhomme’s health is essential to this team’s success. If he’s okay, the Panthers will score points. The defense must step up too. This is a team that can go either way.