4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers vs. Lions in Week 16
By Dean Jones
Bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers as they look to conclude their home engagements with victory over the Detroit Lions in Week 16.
It’s do-or-die for the Carolina Panthers in Week 16 as they look to bolster their NFC South chances. To still be in the running at this stage is unbelievable, but being in the NFL’s worst division has its benefits and destiny remains in the team’s control over the final three games.
Not many expect the Panthers to make postseason waves in 2022. This bears more significance after an inept showing at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers, which brought everyone associated with the franchise crashing down to earth after a week of renewed hope.
Carolina finishes its regular-season schedule at Bank of America Stadium against the red-hot Detroit Lions, who’ve enjoyed a phenomenal second half of 2022 and harbor real hopes of securing a wildcard berth if the same trend continues.
Expect another physical encounter in what could be one of Carolina’s coldest-ever games in franchise history. Here are four bold predictions ahead of the clash.
Bold Prediction No. 1
Carolina Panthers DTs combine for 3 sacks
Getting bullied in the trenches last time out ensured the Carolina Panthers got a good taste of their own medicine. Something that each lineman will want to put right this weekend versus the Detroit Lions.
While the Lions have a productive tackle tandem in Penei Sewell and Taylor Decker, their offensive line interior can occasionally get exposed. This is why Derrick Brown and Matt Ioannidis’ contributions will go a long way to determining the overall outcome.
Brown and Ioannidis are a solid tandem. If they can somehow get three sacks on Jared Goff between them, it will stand the Panthers in tremendous stead.