3 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers in Week 3

This game will rely on the leg of Joey Slye.

Anyone who has paid close attention to several different games in the past two weeks is probably aware that both Chargers’ contests have been decided by game-ending field goals.

In Week 1, Cincinnati Bengals rookie quarterback Joe Burrow effectively drove the team down the field on the final drive against Los Angeles. But kicker Randy Bullock missed a 31-yard field goal that would have sent the game into overtime.

The Chargers competed admirably against the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2 and that game did go into overtime. However, Andy Reid’s men were able to get the victory with a 58-yard field goal by ex-Panther Harrison Butker.

This game has the potential to be another one decided by kicking. The Chargers pass rush is dangerous and will surely make it tough for the Panthers to score touchdowns. Carolina can equally make it a tough day by putting pressure on Herbert and creating takeaways.

The bigger challenge will be stopping dynamic running back Austin Ekeler from milking the clock with big runs. If they succeed, the Panthers should be able to play the game on their terms.  Carolina’s kicker Joey Slye will have to step up and perhaps make some important kicks to ensure the team leaves LaLa Land with their first victory of the 2020 season.