For the first time since 2013 against the Seahawks, the Panthers are home for the season opener, set to take on the Cowboys. Carolina went 2-2 in the last four openers on the road, and head coach Ron Rivera will be thrilled to know his team will (finally) host the game to start the season. This marks just the second time in Rivera’s eight seasons that the Panthers are home for Week 1.
2. An early break in the action
Carolina’s bye comes in Week 4, which is the earliest it can possibly be. The Panthers' first Week 4 bye since 2013 sets up 13 consecutive weeks without a break, which will no doubt be grueling.