The full NFL preseason schedule started on Wednesday in Charlotte
A couple former Wisconsin Badger football players were in action for the Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans. Carolina defeated Houston 27 – 17 in case you’re the kind of person who cares about preseason results. But you don’t right? right?
More importantly, a healthy JJ Watt returned to the field for Houston. In addition, Dare Ogunbowale played for Houston in his NFL debut. Finally, Dezmen Southward got snaps at safety for Carolina. So what did we learn?
First off, Watt was out there to get back in game action but avoid injuring himself. Nevertheless, on the first play from scrimmage, Watt hustled downfield to corral Panther WR Kelvin Benjamin. But we didn’t get much of a read on Watt for 2017 but if he’s back the Texans defense will be one of the better units in the NFL.
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As for Southward, he had a nice game overall. Pro Football Focus gave him an 81.3 overall grade, good for 5th best on Carolina. His six total tackles (four solo) was good for 2nd most on the Panthers. His best play was a high energy fumble recovery. A Panther LB had a clear shot at it and in the ensuing scramble, Southward fond the football.
It was nice to see some strong play from Southward. He’s had a tough start to his NFL career after being selected high in the 3rd round by Atlanta. Southward cut by Atlanta in midseason 2015, followed by the Indianapolis practice squad. He joined a beleaguered Carolina secondary before the 2017 season. A few more performances like Wednesday, and Southward could book a place in a Carolina secondary with plenty of open jobs.
Finally, Ogunbowale did not get many opportunities for Houston. He had one carry for eight yards, and caught one pass for three yards. Ogunbowale did record a tackle on special teams which is important because running and catching won’t be enough to get him a roster spot.
Houston starting RB Lamar Miler had just two carries. But backup Alfred Blue had five carries for 33 yards and a powerful TD run. Late 3rd round Houston pick D’onta Foreman had nine carries for 76 yards. Former Purdue RB Akeem Hunt got two carries for eight yards. Unfortunately for Ogunbowale, Miller, Blue, and Foreman are likely roster locks.
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Last season Houston kept five RB on the active roster. That does not leave much room for Ogunbowale. The practice squad beckons. Hopefully, Ogunbowale will get more opportunities to show off his rushing and receiving in the next Houston preseason games.