Predicting the Carolina Panthers next five games after 0-2 start in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers vs. Arizona Cardinals
Another home game for the Carolina Panthers sees the Arizona Cardinals come to town. It’s been a mixed bag for Kliff Kingsbury’s men so far in 2022, with immense pressure on quarterback Kyler Murray to take the next step after getting a bumper new contract this offseason.
Ironically, the Panthers managed to overcome the odds to defeat Arizona on the road in 2021 during Cam Newton’s sensational comeback. Things unraveled almost immediately after, but Matt Rhule can take some comfort from that display in pursuit of similar fortunes this season.
There is no Newton to provide a spark after the Panthers opted not to bring back the former NFL MVP this spring. That task now falls on Baker Mayfield, who’s made a solid impression overall during the opening two games following his trade from the Cleveland Browns.
The Cardinals have playmakers on both sides of the football that can make things happen. But they won’t have the benefit of All-Pro wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins as he continues to play out a six-game suspension.
Prediction: Win (1-3)
Looking at how the Cardinals came back at the Las Vegas Raiders thanks to an incredible display from Murray, this is a stretch perhaps. It’s also worth remembering that the Panthers have a good record against Arizona in recent years, which should give them some hope.