Carolina Panthers: Top Takeaways from win over Miami Dolphins

CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 17: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers runs for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the first quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NC – AUGUST 17: Christian McCaffrey #22 of the Carolina Panthers runs for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the first quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Greg Van Roten plays well

While Matt Kalil struggled, left guard Greg Van Roten had another strong performance this preseason. The veteran started at left guard for the second consecutive week and had the key block that sprang McCaffrey for the long run.

On the play, Van Roten pulled across the line and was able to seal the running lane to give McCaffrey room to operate.

The battle for left guard to replace former All-Pro Andrew Norwell had come down to Van Roten and undrafted rookie Brendan Mahon. However, now that Van Roten has started both preseason games, and has played well, it would seem that this is his job and he is now the favorite to start Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys.

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