3 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers in Week 6 vs. the Bears

The Carolina Panthers are back at home this week, hoping to take their winning streak to four with a win over their first NFC North opponent, the Chicago Bears.

The Carolina Panthers are tied for first in the NFC South with a 3-2 overall record. However, you wouldn’t think so based on the lack of national media attention compared to their division-leading counterparts. Quite frankly, they deserve a lot more respect.

Let’s start with Matt Rhule, who should be a leading candidate for Coach of the Year. In a year with no traditional offseason, first-year head coaches not including Rhule are 7-13. Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski is the only other coach with a winning record.

The difference is the Browns are a very talented veteran roster on offense and defense. Rhule and defensive coordinator Phil Snow have the Panthers right in the middle of the NFL in total defense with young players leading the way.

That’s a huge feat, again, in a year with no offseason.

On the offensive side of the ball, Teddy Bridgewater is developing a reputation for being the guy that’s not being talked about enough. Following Carolina’s defeat of the Atlanta Falcons last Sunday, CBS Sports HQ posted a few stats about the quarterback on Twitter with the caption:

"“It’s time to start giving Teddy Bridgewater the respect he deserves in 2020.”"

We agree.

The Panthers will need to stack up some wins against quality competition to get more recognition and that starts this Sunday at home against Chicago. Here are three very bold predictions for the game.