3 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers vs. the Lions in Week 11

Derrick Brown will outplay Jeff Okudah

Derrick Brown was taken four spots after Ohio State University cornerback Jeff Okudah, who stood out on a defense starring Heisman Trophy finalist Chase Young.

In Okudah’s senior season as a Buckeye, he had 34 total tackles, three interceptions, nine passes deflected, and one forced fumble. The cornerback was selected No. 3 overall by Detroit, but so far, he hasn’t lived up to his high draft status, and it’s possible he doesn’t even start on Sunday.

To this point, the rookie corner has one interception, two pass deflections, and 40 total tackles. Okudah may end up being a very nice player but you’d expect the third overall pick to at least be in the Defensive Rookie of the Year conversation.

Brown’s numbers don’t jump off the page (he’s still looking for his first sack), but he’s definitely proven to be well worth the pick that the Carolina Panthers spent on him. The defensive tackle may have a very tough time against Detroit’s highly rated run blocking, but could get his first sack of the season.

Matthew Stafford has been sacked in all but one game during the campaign and he’s been dropped at least twice times in all but two of those contests.

It may not take much if Okudah doesn’t start. But by the end of the game, Brown could make Lions fans wish their team selected him instead.