One of the myriad issues facing the winless Panthers during their bye week is the offensive line's regression after being amongst the league's most effective last season. While OLT Jordan Gross is still playing at a high level, sources say other members of the O-line, particularly ORG Keydrick Vincent, seem to have taken a step back. The unit isn't getting the push it did in 2008, and the running game, which is still the team's greatest strength, slipped to 21st in the league prior to the bye. Part of the problem is that Carolina has been playing from behind for much of the season, forcing it to throw. As a result, it's averaging the sixth-fewest carries per game in the league. We hear the coaching staff has not considered playing anyone over Vincent, because there simply aren't any better options available. Vincent's top backup, Mackenzy Bernadeau, is a long-term project who isn't ready for prime playing time in his second season.

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