Advertisement

Scouting the NFC South

 
Published Sept. 20, 2014

SAINTS

If history is any judge, New Orleans' 0-2 start isn't a good sign. It has missed the playoffs the past six times it began that poorly. New Orleans doesn't have to deal with Minnesota's Adrian Peterson, but it's without its top rusher, Mark Ingram (broken hand). Some of Ingram's carries will go to Khiry Robinson, a second-year back out of Division II West Texas A&M who has 283 yards and two touchdowns for his career. "He's a physical runner with really good balance," coach Sean Payton told nola.com of the undrafted free agent. "He'll be fired up for the opportunity, and he has already been a really big part of our plan."

PANTHERS

The Bucs aren't the only division team with major injury concerns. The Panthers saw six starters miss practice at one point last week, according to the Charlotte Observer. That includes running back DeAngelo Williams and fullback Mike Tolbert, who both are expected to play. Add a banged-up Fozzy Whittaker, and Carolina might have to add a back for the game against the Steelers. It also has been a role reversal of sorts with the often-injured Jonathan Stewart stepping in as the healthy starter. "(Wednesday) seemed like the roles switched," Stewart told espn.com. "Usually, I'm that guy on the bike."