5 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers at Falcons in Week 8

Carolina Panthers QB Sam Darnold doesn’t turn the ball over

This might be the boldest of predictions considering how Sam Darnold has regressed over the last four games. But it really is now or never for the Carolina Panthers quarterback.

Darnold was benched – and deservedly so – after a terrible outing at the New York Giants. Speculation grew that the Panthers were going to make another bid to land Deshaun Watson, although recent reports suggest Carolina is out of the running for the time being, at least.

This didn’t go unnoticed by Darnold, who said he was only focused on getting better rather than all the speculation surrounding his future.

But it’s pretty clear that massive adjustments are needed for the player to become a success in Carolina.

One can make the argument that the offensive line should be doing more and there is also the absence of Christian McCaffrey to consider. But the problems Darnold displayed on the New York Jets are now coming to the fore after a promising start.

This could be Darnold’s final chance to prove his doubters wrong. Things are going to get incredibly awkward with another interception-riddled display, even though the Panthers might be stuck with the USC product for the entire season.

Providing the game doesn’t get away from the Panthers, expect them to run the football a lot more. However, what’s equally important is Darnold not turning the ball over with opposing defenses smelling blood.