Last meeting
The Chargers scored 17 second-half points to defeat the host Panthers in Week 7 of 2004.
Streaks
The Panthers lead the all-time series, 2-1.
Keep your eye on ...
Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme: The veteran signal-caller was off to a hot start for the Panthers in 2007 before suffering a season-ending elbow injury in Week 3. Delhomme is healthy again this season, and the Pantherw are anxious to see if he will pick up where he left off last year.
The Panthers' receivers: Carolina will be without star receiver Steve Smith, who is serving a two-game suspension. Second-year receiver Dwayne Jarrett had a solid preseason with a team-high 13 receptions.
Shawne Merriman's damaged left knee: Merriman has two torn ligaments in his left knee, but put season-ending surgery on hold. Merriman wants to play this season, but the question will be just how effective he can be.
Chargers center Jeremy Newberry: Center Nick Hardwick was removed from the physically-unable-to-perform list, but isn't expected to start against the Panthers. Hardwick has been crucial to the Chargers' running attack, so it is imperative for Newberry to perform well.
Did you know?
The Panthers have only reached the playoffs once since reaching the Super Bowl in 2003. ... Quarterback Philip Rivers had a passer rating over 100 in four of the Chargers' final six regular-season games of 2007, as the team went 6-0. ... Chargers receiver Vincent Jackson had 18 receptions for 300 yards and 2 touchdowns in the 2007 playoffs.
