Dolphins vs. Panthers: Time, Channel, Line

joe philbin

Dolphins coach Joe Philbin has tried to bring his team closer together during their stay in Carolina (Getty).

Miami and Carolina finish up a week of joint practices when they meet at XXX this weekend. The Panthers are reeling from the loss of Kelvin Benjamin, who tore his ACL in a scrimmage yesterday. That’s bad news for Cam Newton, who signed a big contract this offseason but now is without his favorite target. Benjamin had a solid rookie season, finishing 16th in the NFL with nine touchdown receptions.

Miami looks to sharpen up against the Panthers, after scoring only 10 points in their first preseason game. Tannehill looked sharp for the only touchdown, but coach Joe Philbin would like to see more from his rookies and backups.

Here’s a look at everything you need to know:


Game Information

The Panthers need the preseason to figure out who will replace Kelvin Benjamin in the lineup (Getty).

The Panthers need the preseason to figure out who will replace Kelvin Benjamin in the lineup (Getty).

Date: Saturday, August 22, 2015

Time: 7:00 p.m. ET

Location: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte NC

TV Channel: WFOR in Miami; WCCB in Charlotte. Click here for a full list of local affiliates

Live Stream: NFL.com

Odds: Even Money, Over/Under 40, via OddsShark.com


Dolphins Player to Watch: Rishard Matthews

rishard matthews,

Matthews could be a breakout star for the Dolphins this season (Getty).

Rishard Mathews is competing to be the number two receiver behind Jarvis Landry. The XX player from XXX has looked sharp in training camp. If Mathews and Landry can sync up this season, Ryan Tannehill and the Dolphins will be a dangerous matchup.

Mathews showed flashes of talent last season, but finished 2014 with just 12 catches. The more the Dolphins trust Tannehill, the better numbers you can expect from Landry and Matthews.


Panthers Player to Watch: Devin Funchess

devin funchess

Now that Benjamin is out, Funchess is expected to play a large role in the Panthers’ offense (Getty)

With Benjamin out for the season, opportunities open up for people like rookie receiver Devin Funchess. The 2nd round pick out of Michigan has a similar frame to KB, but lacks the hands and quickness that made Benjamin’s NFL transition so smooth.

If Funchess can stay healthy, he’s a strong candidate to become the Panther’s top wideout. He will compete for the position alongside veterans Jerricho Cotchery and Ted Ginn Jr., along with former Packer Jarrett Boykin.

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