Panthers WRs Johnson, Thielen Out vs. Broncos

Carolina's Receiving Corps Depleted for Week 17 Matchup

The Carolina Panthers will be without two of their top wide receivers, Robbie Anderson and Terrace Marshall Jr., when they take on the Denver Broncos in Week 17. Anderson is dealing with an ankle injury, while Marshall is out with a concussion. These injuries are a significant blow to the Panthers' passing attack, as Anderson and Marshall are the team's leading and second-leading receivers, respectively. With Anderson and Marshall out, the Panthers will likely turn to Shi Smith and Rashard Higgins to step up in their absence. Smith has been a breakout star for the Panthers this season, leading the team in receiving yards per game. Higgins, meanwhile, has been a reliable target for quarterback Sam Darnold in recent weeks. Despite the injuries to Anderson and Marshall, the Panthers still have a chance to win against the Broncos. Denver has struggled defensively this season, allowing the most passing yards per game in the NFL. If Darnold can get the ball to Smith and Higgins, the Panthers should be able to move the ball through the air.

Panthers' Playoff Hopes Take a Hit

The injuries to Anderson and Marshall are a major blow to the Panthers' playoff hopes. Carolina is currently 5-10 and needs to win their final two games to have any chance of making the playoffs. With Anderson and Marshall out, the Panthers will have a much tougher time scoring points. Smith and Higgins are both talented receivers, but they are not as experienced or productive as Anderson and Marshall. The Panthers will also need to get more production from their running game if they want to win their final two games. Christian McCaffrey has been out with an ankle injury, but he is expected to return for Week 17. If McCaffrey can stay healthy, he will give the Panthers a much-needed boost. Despite the injuries to Anderson and Marshall, the Panthers still have a chance to make the playoffs. However, they will need to play their best football in the final two weeks of the season.