Offensive line play, for the second preseason game in a row, came up short for the Carolina Panthers. 

There was no secret meeting, like after the first game of the season. However, there was still an understood assumption that the offensive line must be better. At least that is what offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu detailed to reporters after the game. 

"I think overall, as a unit, we improved," Ekwonu said as he dressed after the game. "Obviously, personally, there's a lot of things I want to work on, get better at."

Ekwonu was a primary culprit. He allowed a sack in the second quarter that stalled Bryce Young's drive which could have resulted in a touchdown. Still, there was a marginal improvement. The Panthers' defense allowed two sacks as opposed to the five they gave up against the Jets. 

Ekwonu must be better if the Panthers are going to live up to any of the preseason expectations that have been placed on the team. 

Veteran guard Justin McCray knows that Ekwonu is talented. And though Ekwonu has had an ugly preseason, McCray understands that the talent the left tackle possesses is something that, if tapped into, will make the entire offensive line better. High tides raise all boats. 

"He has all the talent in the world, extremely athletic," McCray said. "Probably the strongest guy on the line. He has all the tools to be great. The thing he has the most of is he wants to. He works at it, he watches film, he asks questions.

"It's not an if thing; it's a when. When he puts it all together, it's going to be a great thing to watch, and he's going to be one of the better tackles in the league."

The offensive line is the biggest worry for the Panthers. And on that line, Ekwonu has to get better. 

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Feature image via Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports.