Predicting the Carolina Panthers next five games after 1-3 start in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers at LA Rams
After so many home games to begin the season, things are about to get tougher for the Carolina Panthers. A daunting prospect at the best of times, but especially so right now considering how perilous things look for head coach Matt Rhule and his roster.
The Los Angeles Rams might not have started the season as many anticipated. But the defending Super Bowl champions are a match for anyone on their day and this is a monumental ask for the Panthers given the team’s current form.
Carolina’s defense needs to be at the top of its game. Matthew Stafford already has six interceptions to his name this season, so if the likes of Brian Burns can disrupt him enough there might be an opportunity or two for some turnovers.
Containing Aaron Donald and the Rams’ defense could be a task too great. The defensive tackle is widely regarded as the league’s best overall player, so Carolina’s improving offensive line interior must be ready for anything to provide windows for Baker Mayfield or Christian McCaffrey to do damage.
Prediction: Loss (1-5)
The Panthers won’t be fancied in this one, to put it mildly. Although this might give them an added sense of freedom, at 1-4 heading into the game in this scenario, there will still be an unbelievable amount of pressure on their shoulders.