Backup quarterback Kyle Allen stepped in last week and proved the Carolina Panthers can compete without Cam Newton. Granted, it was against a rebuilding Arizona Cardinals team and Allen faces a much tougher task this week but momentum and confidence go a long way – two factors clearly on the Panthers side right now.
Ruled out indefinitely, Newton may be sidelined for some time and with rookie quarterback Will Grier the only other current option, expectations are the immediate future rests with Allen. Connecting on four touchdown passes last week, the first such scores for Carolina this season, keeping Allen upright and the offense rolling will be key against Houston.