The Panthers were unable to complete the “perfect” preseason as they dropped to 3-1 in a loss against the Steelers. However, the Panthers’ offense looked rejuvenated under first year offensive coordinator Norv Turner. This preseason, they averaged 373.3 yards per game, the best in the NFL according to NFL statistics. Cam Newton looked more consistent, completing 26 of 38 passes for 315 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Despite its many woes, the offensive line only allowed seven sacks all preseason.

The Cowboys finished 0-4 this preseason. Not exactly stellar. But, Dallas’ first-team defense looked solid. In 39 snaps, the unit allowed 2.2 yards per carry and a 63 passer rating against.

Here are three keys for the Panthers offense to get off to a winning start in 2018:

Beat Cowboys at the pass rush: Last season, the Cowboys found a consistent pass rusher in defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. This season, the Cowboys found a compliment for Lawrence in Randy Gregory. Lawrence is a monster against quarterbacks. He racked up 14.5 sacks, generating 160 lost yards last season. The most sack yards in the NFL in 15 years. Taylor Moton will have a true test in his first game at left tackle if he’s to protect Newton.

Last season, the Cowboys found a consistent pass rusher in defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. This season, the Cowboys found a compliment for Lawrence in Randy Gregory. Lawrence is a monster against quarterbacks. He racked up 14.5 sacks, generating 160 lost yards last season. The most sack yards in the NFL in 15 years. Taylor Moton will have a true test in his first game at left tackle if he’s to protect Newton. Time to run CMC: Ron Rivera said in the offseason that Christian McCaffrey could see 25-30 touches per game. It’s time to put those words in action. He had a 71-yard touchdown run in the Panthers’ 27-20 preseason win over the Dolphins — the longest run from scrimmage in the NFC. Despite the many injures to the offensive line, CMC was able to rush 21 times for 151 yards and two scores in the preseason. McCaffrey not only showed off his versatility, but proved he’s able to run between the tackles.

Ron Rivera said in the offseason that Christian McCaffrey could see 25-30 touches per game. It’s time to put those words in action. He had a 71-yard touchdown run in the Panthers’ 27-20 preseason win over the Dolphins — the longest run from scrimmage in the NFC. Despite the many injures to the offensive line, CMC was able to rush 21 times for 151 yards and two scores in the preseason. McCaffrey not only showed off his versatility, but proved he’s able to run between the tackles. Don’t overthink, just throw the ball: Panthers have one of the most dynamic wide receiving corps in the league. Meanwhile, the Cowboys’ secondary is their weakest asset. Jourdan Lewis outplayed Anthony Brown in the preseason, despite Lewis not looking as confident. With how thin the Cowboys are at safety, Dallas recently acquired Ibraheim Campbell off waivers. But Campbell will have to get up to speed fast. Carolina will have a real chance to beat Dallas through the air.

This game will come down to how well the offensive line can stick together against a stout defensive front. If Newton is given the chance, he’ll be able to throw 400+ yards and allow his receivers to make big plays. Without that protection, things could unravel for the Panthers.