Comments from Carolina Panthers Head Coach Ron Rivera.
On how linebacker Thomas Davis has looked in his first two preseason games: I'm excited about having Thomas back. I thought last week was a huge step in the right direction. The first step he took, obviously, was getting back on the field two weeks ago. Then this past game he was tremendous. I'm really excited about him as a football player. He did show he is rusty at a few things. It was interesting when you break the tape down. But right now he's playing a little bit more on instinct as opposed to reading his keys. When he gets everything together, he's going to be even more dynamic than he was the other day.
On quarterback Jimmy Clausen being back at practice after missing Saturday with an injury: Yes. Jimmy threw a few today, took a couple of snaps. He's still a little wobbly with the leg but he looked good throwing the ball as best as he could with that quad injury.
On how defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer has done in his first two practices: Looking good. He's a big body that's getting the way that we want to practice. He's doing some good things, and I'm excited about that. I think he can be an asset to what we want to do defensively.
On how tackle Jeff Otah responded to practicing for the second consecutive day: We are increasing his reps little by little, and he's responding very well. We'll see how he is tomorrow. Hopefully, he won't be as sore, so that we'll know we're taking steps in the right direction.
