For the 11th time this season, the Panthers will have to play without their best offensive weapon. According to a report by Adam Schefter at ESPN, running back Christian McCaffrey will officially be ruled out for tonight’s game against the Packers.
This development was expected, as coach Matt Rhule was pessimistic all week about McCaffrey’s chances of suiting up tonight and he was listed as doubtful on the team’s final Week 15 injury report.
McCaffrey played the first two games of the season before he was sidelined by a high ankle sprain that put him on injured reserve. When he returned, McCaffrey suffered a shoulder injury against the Chiefs and he’s been out ever since. McCaffrey had another setback during the bye week as he injured his quad, which is why he’s out tonight. Despite the ongoing health troubles, Rhule says there is no plan to shut McCaffrey down for the season.
When he’s been on the field No. 22 has been brilliant, though. In three games this year, McCaffrey has 374 yards and six touchdowns from scrimmage. Starting in his place will be Mike Davis, who has been extremely impressive for a backup, totaling 926 yards and seven touchdowns from scrimmage.
Carolina will also be playing without guard Dennis Daley, who was ruled out due to a concussion yesterday and didn’t travel with the team.
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