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Starting tackle Gross out as Panthers patch up line
Bridges, who has subbed on offensive line, may start
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Published: October 4, 2008
CHARLOTTE - Jordan Gross' streak of 84 consecutive starts for the Carolina Panthers will end, and fellow starting tackle Jeff Otah is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Gross, who has started every game since coming to Carolina in 2003, was ruled out yesterday by Coach John Fox. Gross was knocked unconscious during last weekend's win over Atlanta and didn't practice all week.
Otah, who has a sprained right ankle, missed his third straight practice yesterday. Fox rarely starts players who have missed the full week of practice.
The Panthers will be forced to use a makeshift offensive line against the Chiefs.
"It's part of the game," Fox said. "We've dealt with it before, and we will deal with it again."
Fox wouldn't identify the replacements for Gross and Otah, calling those game-time decisions. However, Jeremy Bridges, who has filled in twice this season when Otah was out, is expected to start at right tackle. He started 14 games at right tackle for the Panthers in 2006.
Frank Omiyale could make his first NFL start at left tackle. Although he has been around the league for four years, Omiyale has played in only one game and has never taken a snap on the offensive line in a regular season.
"Whether it's Frank Omiyale or whoever, if you get that opportunity, you need to make the most of it," Fox said. "I think Frank is prepared for that."
Fox could also shift Travelle Wharton to left tackle and start Geoff Hangartner at left guard. He did that last weekend when Gross was injured.
Also yesterday, cornerback Ken Lucas (ankle) and receiver Ryne Robinson (knee) practiced in full, but are questionable for Sunday, and linebacker Na'il Diggs (illness) returned to practice after sitting out Thursday.
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