Houston Texans at Carolina Panthers: 3 Quick Takeaways

The first preseason encounter for both the Houston Texans and Carolina Panthers is in the books with plenty of things to take away.

The final score was a Panthers 27-17 victory. Nothing much to write home about. In preseason it’s all about the players who performed, specifically the new rookies. Did they step up to expectations or fall a little flat? Fans got some answers in this Wednesday night affair. There were plenty of positives to go around for both sides.

DOnta Foreman outshined Deshaun Watson

Deshaun Watson was unsurprisingly the focus for the Texans in this game. All in all he did well enough. He had 176 yards passing with a rushing touchdown though he did miss on some open receivers. The more encouraging performance though came from fellow rookie DOnta Foreman. Houston knows they could use a more physical presence on the ground. Foreman, with that big frame, churned out 76 yards on just nine carries. If those two progress as hoped, this team is in business.

The Kelvin Benjamin weight problem appears under control

The big talk around Panthers training camp when it started centered around wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin and his reported weight problem. He showed up several pounds higher than normal. Some were concerned of whether he could get back to proper condition in time for the season. It took two plays in this game to silence those fear as Benjamin made two catches for 40 yards and a touchdown. All without Cam Newton throwing the ball. Seems he’s good.

Christian McCaffrey looked as advertised

It’s not clear yet whether the Panther really know how to utilize Christian McCaffrey to the best of his abilities. Then again they aren’t going to reveal their playbook at this point anyway. In the small preview he gave for his first game, it looked good. He showcased that same vision, quickness and hidden strength that made him such a terror at Stanford. Provided the Panthers don’t try to abuse him, he’ll be yet another weapon for that arsenal.