As any self-respecting NFL Chick knows, preseason football is a tease. Your excitement builds at just the thought of your boys dressing out and taking the field. Then you remember temperatures are still triple digits, none of your favorite players will be featured, and at the end of the day, it doesn’t even matter who wins.

The Raiders beat the Cowboys in their first preseason game, for goodness sakes. Do you think Cowboys fan think they’ll go winless this season? Do you think Raiders fans think they’re heading to the Super Bowl? Um, no.

Regardless of the inevitable Monday night letdown, though, the Panthers will take the field tonight against the Giants, and despite all that I know, butterflies are emerging in my (taut and toned) tummy even now.

Carolina will be without defensive stud Maake Kemoeatu (out for the season with an Achille’s tear) and will not be playing Steve Smith (nursing a shoulder injury). The absence of Smith will give two-year disappointment Dwayne Jarrett an opportunity to prove his mettle at receiver and return the spotlight to vetern Muhsin Muhammad.

The game will also answer many questions about a jumbled defensive line. Reintroducing wildcard Julius Peppers and showcasing rookie Everette Brown, who has proven impressive in camp. Also impressive at camp has been seventh round pick, Captain Munnerlyn, a former Gamecock. Not only is his name one of the most awesome in the league, but his work ethic is equally ass-kicking. Lining up against Smith at camp, Munnerlyn has proven a force to reckoned with as he matches the receiver in speed and vertical leap.

As these two NFC powerhouses match up tonight, true fans will know that the game is virtually meaningless, but it may help cement unknown factors, introduce new superstars, and definitely whet this Panthers Chick’s appetite for the real thing.