3 bold predictions for the Panthers in Week 5 at the Falcons

The Carolina Panthers defense will score a touchdown

It has to happen sometime, right?

The Carolina Panthers have not been world beaters on defense, but they have been able to make plays and force turnovers, especially as of late. Defensive touchdowns can be hard to come by in the NFL, but Donte Jackson has already come close to returning an interception for a touchdown this season.

However, there’s a reason why we’re calling this a blod prediction. Atlanta ranks eighth in the NFL with a turnover differential of +2 and only has three giveaways on the year. The Falcons protect the football, which is unusual for a team that hasn’t won a game through four weeks.

The advantage for the Panthers? Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan may be short-handed without his best weapon, wide receiver Julio Jones, who is questionable for the game after missing practice all week with a lingering hamstring injury that he aggravated once again at the Packers on Monday Night Football.

Whether or not the Panthers defense scores will strictly come down to field position and making the most of any opportunities. Forcing turnovers by putting constant pressure on Ryan and covering the Falcons playmakers may be an easier and more important priority for Carolina as they look to win three in a row.