4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers vs. Steelers in Week 15
By Dean Jones
Bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers as they look to boost their NFC South championship chances against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 15.
Momentum and excitement are building where the Carolina Panthers are concerned. A first road success of the campaign at the Seattle Seahawks put them within one game of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for a shock NFC South title, which is incredible when put into the correct context following a dramatic 2022 so far.
Steve Wilks has everyone singing from the same hymn sheet. He’s done this with one hand tied behind his back and if Carolina’s good form continues, then it would be a surprise if the respected coach didn’t get a longer-term commitment from team owner David Tepper.
Bank of America becoming a fortress once again has been the core component behind Carolina’s resurgence. Wilks is unbeaten in familiar surroundings and Sunday’s clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers represents another winnable game at the business end of the campaign.
Looking ahead to the clash, we made four bold Panthers predictions in Week 15.
Bold Prediction No. 1
Carolina Panthers hold T.J. Watt to zero sacks
T.J. Watt is not a liked man in the Carolinas. His vicious hit on Cam Newton changed the trajectory not only of the quarterback’s career but also the Carolina Panthers overall thanks to a series of flawed personnel moves under center.
While Sam Darnold is showing slight signs of life, things could go wrong in the blink of an eye for someone that’s struggled to find consistency throughout his career. If the signal-caller wants to thrive in Week 15, he’ll need those across the offensive line at the top of their respective games.
Considering how well the protection is playing right now, holding Watt to zero sacks is an ambitious but attainable goal.