4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers vs. Browns in Week 1
By Dean Jones
Here are some bold predictions ahead of what promises to be a fascinating encounter between the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns in Week 1.
It’s been a long, eventful offseason.
But the Carolina Panthers finally take the field at Bank of America Stadium later this afternoon against the Cleveland Browns to begin their 2022 season.
There are so many intriguing storylines to watch in this one. The obvious attention goes towards Baker Mayfield in the face of the team that traded him away, but weather conditions coupled with increased urgency indicate massive stakes within a highly-charged atmosphere on home soil.
It’s going to be a must-watch encounter, there’s little doubt about that. Here are four bold predictions surrounding the Week 1 clash.
Bold Prediction No. 1
Carolina Panthers will outscore Browns in 3rd quarter
One of the biggest complications that emerged from the 2021 season was no efficiency in the third quarter. A lack of effective halftime adjustments meant it was extremely flat more often than not following the interval, which gave the Carolina Panthers a mountain to climb down the stretch.
Matt Rhule now has experienced NFL coaches to lean on for support. Something that should make a huge difference when it comes to making the right calls and reacting well to what’s transpiring between the white lines.
Outscoring the Cleveland Browns during the third quarter would be a significant change of pace from a team that’s been so lackluster at this stage of games under Rhule. This would also put them in pole position for an opening day triumph.