Panthers vs. Lions: Prediction, best bets and what to expect

Carolina Panthers vs. Lions: What to expect

Much will depend on what players are actually available regarding what to expect in this one. The Carolina Panthers could be without quarterback Teddy Bridgewater in addition to star running back Christian McCaffrey, which would be a real blow to their chances of a morale-boosting win.

Bridgewater has been limited in practice this week, but his mobility hasn’t exactly given great cause for encouragement and if – as expected – the Panthers decide to sit him it will be up to either Will Grier or P.J. Walker to assume command under center.

Both quarterbacks have plenty to prove at the next level. Carolina has alternated between the two as the backup depending on the opposition’s strengths and weaknesses, so it might just come down to whether Grier’s pocket passing or Walker’s ability to move on the run would be better suited.

Neither team is adept at generating consistent pressure in the backfield, which might work in Detroit’s favor providing Matthew Stafford’s hand injury doesn’t impact his ability to contribute too much. Running back D’Andre Swift and Kenny Golladay won’t be available, which is a big boost for the Panthers defense given how talented they are.

With so many prominent players either not at full health or missing the game completely, it only adds to the uncertainty surrounding how things are going to go.