CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Week one of the NFL season kicked off Thursday with a forks-to-the-eyes match-up with Philadelphia outlasting Atlanta 18-12, in a game that saw 26 accepted penalties. If there is a positive, it is that we don’t have to watch them play again this weekend.

The Panthers host the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday (4:25pm kickoff), in a game that should be much more enjoyable to watch.

Let’s break down what to keep an eye on in week one.

THE LINE OF SCRIMMAGE

WHEN CAROLINA HAS THE BALL

In the preseason, there was a lot of talk about Carolina’s offensive line and the injuries they had sustained. As of this writing, there is no definitive word on whether Darryl Williams or Amini Silatolu will play for Carolina this week. The duo have been ramping up their work in practice, which is rather remarkable considering the nature of their injuries. Even more impressive is the chance they may play against Dallas. The Panthers made it through the preseason without Williams and Silatolu on the field for one offensive snap.

No matter who plays for the Panthers O-Line, they will be busy with the likes of Demarcus Lawrence. Lawrence posted 14.5 sacks in 2017, and he will likely be coming at Cam Newton from the right side of the line. That means the starting right tackle (listed on the Panthers depth chart as Williams), will have his hands full, while working on a healing knee.

If there is one thing I have learned in covering a Ron Rivera coached team, it is that he will heed the advice of the doctors and trainers. If they tell him a player cannot play, Rivera won’t play them. The starting offensive line group for Carolina is one that will be watched closely on game day.

WHEN DALLAS HAS THE BALL

The real challenge facing the Panther defense is containing Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott.  Gone are players like tight end Jason Witten, and receiver Dez Bryant, yet the Cowboys do have skill on the outside with receivers.

The problem in trying to contain that talent is the offensive line in front of them. Dallas boasts one of the top O-line groups in the league. Last season, Dallas rushed for an average of 135 yards per game, and a 4.5 yard average per carry. Elliott appeared in just 10 games and was 17 yards shy of reaching the 1,000 yard mark. Elliott is dangerous but even more so because of the holes the line opens for him.

Panthers defensive end Mario Addison calls Prescott a “little Russell Wilson,” which is certainly a compliment. Prescott has the ability to avoid the rush and also make tough throws on the run. Keeping contain on Prescott will be key, but getting him to the ground would be even better for Carolina’s hopes of stopping the Dallas attack.

NORV’S OFFENSE

Panther fans have been licking their chops waiting to see new offensive coordinator Norv Turner’s offense in full swing. General Manager Marty Hurney brought in draft pick D.J. Moore, along with free agents Torrey Smith, Jarius Wright and C.J. Anderson to mesh with returning veterans Cam Newton, Greg Olsen, Devin Funchess and second year running back Christian McCaffrey.

Speed has increased on that side of the ball, and Turner likes to spread the ball around to several targets. Newton, ultimately, is the one who decides where it goes, but in 2015, the league MVP distributed all over the place, and that was a big reason why Carolina went 15-1 in the regular season.

All of this speed and talent, however, hinges on solid work from the offensive line. If they can’t open holes, or keep Newton upright, all that talent goes for naught.

PANTHERS SPECIAL TEAMS

Panther players chose team captains this week, and safety Colin Jones was tabbed for a letter. Jones is the face of the Panthers so-called “third phase,” but in reality, Carolina’s special teams could be more than just the group that kicks off, punts, and knocks in field goals. That unit could be a real weapon for the Panthers this season.

In addition to limiting kickoff and punt returns by the opposition, the Panthers ran back a kickoff and a punt for touchdowns last season. Jones is a very deserving captain with this group, as he is proof that working hard and staying committed pays off.

PREDICTION:

Panthers 27-13 over Dallas