Extremely early Carolina Panthers game-by-game 2022 record prediction

Carolina Panthers vs. Denver Broncos

There is a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the Denver Broncos after their bombshell trade for Russell Wilson. The Super Bowl winner was undoubtedly looking for a change of scenery and although the Carolina Panthers made an inquiry, the player was not willing to waive his no-trade clause to join the organization, with good reason.

Denver has some exciting young talent that can all benefit from Wilson’s arrival on offense. They also have a new progressive head coach and a defense that is going to be fun to watch in 2022.

Although this game is at Bank of America Stadium, the chances of Carolina being fresh and free from injury by this point are highly unlikely. Players and staff will get a good period of rest in Week 13, but it’s going to take an incredible amount of character to head into the bye on a high.

A team that has Denver’s balance in all phases of play is something the Panthers are striving for. It would also be a shock if the Broncos were not looking for a playoff spot despite finding themselves within a very challenging division.

Week 12 Prediction: Loss (4-8)

In truth, it does feel like the Broncos will have a little too much for Carolina based on personnel and coaching. If the Panthers were at 4-8 heading into their bye week, it would be the worst-case scenario for Matt Rhule.