For a large swath of the season, Panthers punter Andy Lee was the team’s MVP.
But now, he’s hurt, turning what could be a critical job today over to a guy who has not been in the running for that honor.
Lee is questionable to return to today’s game against the Chiefs with a hamstring injury, forcing kicker Graham Gano into action.
Gano hasn’t draped himself in glory this season, missing a number of kicks which could have determined games (starting with a potential game-winner in Denver).
Gano just got a 60-yard punt off, so he’s not incapable. But punting figures to be a big factor on a day when defenses are leaning on each other. Gano’s 42-yard field goal was the only score of the first quarter. The Panthers goaded Alex Smith into a rare interception (only his third of the season), and have held the Chiefs largely in check.
