Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers open against the Houston Texans, where Matt Schaub will return to action briefly for the first time since injuring his foot last year. Both teams have playoff aspirations, though the Panthers will have to make the leap defensively in Newton’s second year. Rookie Luke Kuechly should help, and we can begin to get a glimpse in the first quarter against the Texans offense. Houston, meanwhile, will be working in new starters on the offensive line, something to monitor.

The only other game tonight is Tennessee at Seattle late tonight, where 2nd year quarterback Jake Locker and Matt Hasselbeck are involved in one of the few true competitions at the position. On the other side, Matt Flynn would appear to be the likely starter, and will open tonight. I’m interested in seeing the offense with Russell Wilson when he comes in. Of course, the circus side show is there as well with Terrell Owens, and Seattle also will try to recreate the dominant Browns offenses of five years ago, with both Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow.

[photo via US Presswire]