Redskins/Panthers
Nothing came easy for Joe Gibbs a year ago and he's still looking for solid ground in D.C. Patrick Ramsey needs to take another step forward at the QB slot or Auburn rookie Jason Campbell could be the future now. For this game, QB Patrick Ramsey will start and Marc Brunell will follow, but rookie Jason Campbell figures to play extensively. The defense might have been weakened by the loss of Fred Smoot and LB Pierce and the Redskins are currently short on cornerbacks with Walt Harris and Artrell Hawkins out with minor injuries and Carlos Rogers (ankle) ailing. "We're definitely thin at corner," Gibbs said. Washington is 8-2 "under" the total their last 10 preseason games. Carolina started off a miserable 1-7 a year ago as injuries took their toll. But as some returned, they closed with a 6-2 rush that nearly allowed them to sneak back into the playoffs. DeShaun Foster, workhorse Stephen Davis, and No. 2 pick Eric Shelton out of Louisville will carry the running load. Jake Delhomme returns at quarterback after a solid season. For this game, Delhomme will start, and give way to Chris Weinke, Rod Rutherford, and possibily rookie Stephan LeFlors. John Fox's defense was second in the league his first year in Carolina, eighth in 2003 and slipped to 20th in yardage allowed last season with injuries playing a major factor. The Panthers are more talented and have a major advantage behind the center on Saturday, plus they're at home. It's also tough to bet against Carolina coach John Fox in August, as he's an incredible 9-3 SU, 9-1-2 ATS in preseason!
Projected Score: CAR Panthers 23, WAS Redskins 10