Panthers game-by-game predictions in 2022 after Baker Mayfield trade

Carolina Panthers vs. San Francisco 49ers

The in-form Carolina Panthers have another fine opportunity to continue making waves when they host the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5. This is a period of significant change for Kyle Shanahan’s men, who are set to move forward with Trey Lance as their long-term quarterback after giving up a significant amount of draft capital to bring him to the franchise in 2021.

Now that Lance has had a full season to learn the ropes, much more is anticipated this time around despite the presence of veteran Jimmy Garoppolo, who is expected to be traded or released before the campaign.

This is something the Panthers could take advantage of. Especially if they begin the season in this manner.

Lance will be a danger and the Niners have some phenomenal talent on both sides of the ball to assist. But there is also a cloud hanging over Deebo Samuel right now after an offseason trade request to also factor into the equation.

Prediction: Win (5-0)

If the Panthers went 5-0 to open the season, it would be beyond anyone’s wildest imaginations. Things get much together after this, but putting early victories in the column is only going to help their cause.