CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- It is week 2 in the pre-season, and the Carolina Panthers host Miami on Friday night. 

When you are watching the game on Spectrum News at 7:30 p.m., here are a couple of things to keep in mind.

HOW LONG THE STARTERS PLAY

Playing time climbs in steps over the first three exhibitions. With this being game number two, expect the starters on offense and defense to play at least into the second quarter, if not the entire first half. When asked about this on Wednesday, Head Coach Ron Rivera pointed out he has a "number for each guy," and that would determine when they come out of the game. The coach followed that up with, "I will say this. If we have a low number, the offense going in, and we have a chance for a two-minute drill before the half, we'll take it."

STARTING CORNERBACK RACE CONTINUES

Last week in Buffalo, Kevon Seymour struggled in the early going, and continued to get playing time as the game wore on.  Rookie Donte Jackson seemed to be more comfortable when he was on the field, and when asked about Jackson's play so far in camp, Ron Rivera told reporters he hasn't been as comfortable in the cornerback position in two years.

"The young man is solid," said Rivera. "He's done the things we believed he was capable of. We've got three more pre-season games, he's gonna play in all three, so we'll see what he's made of. So far, I've got a lot of confidence in him, he's heading in the right direction."

James Bradberry did not play in Buffalo, but is likely going to see some snaps against Miami.

OFFENSIVE LINE DEPTH CONSTRUCTION

Ryan Kalil will play against the Dolphins, however, he likely won't be on the field with the starters for the duration of their outing.  Kalil did not play last Thursday against the Bills, and with Tyler Larsen out due to a hyper-extended elbow, look for the Panthers to give Greg Van Roten and Kyle Friend a look at center out of necessity. Taylor Moton played well at the right tackle position, and continues to progress in the absence of Darryl Williams (knee). 

The left guard position is still not settled, and won't be this week, as Van Roten started there in Buffalo. Number 73 for the Panthers figures to be pretty busy against Miami.  Brendon Mahon looked to be the starter prior to the Buffalo game, but was in as a backup as the game wore on. 

Still much to decide on offensive line.

SECOND HALF PLAY FOR POSSIBLE BACKUPS

The starters playing possibly the entire first half means that there are far fewer opportunities for guys trying to make the roster to get on the field. What does that mean?  It means the reps will be at a premium for players looking to make a lasting impression on the coaches. So many of the team's position groups are pretty full at this point, and that means only a few jobs will be available once final cuts come.

Bottom line: the game in the second half will certainly showcase some players shining under the bright lights, and others looking for a way to get away from the glare.