4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers vs. Lions in Week 16
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers get 300+ passing yards from Sam Darnold
Conditions are not expected to be that favorable in Week 16. The promise of frigid weather across the country looks almost guaranteed, which means the Carolina Panthers will be dealing with a colder Bank of America Stadium environment than they’ve experienced in some time.
Although this makes establishing the run even more important, the Detroit Lions can put up significant points in the blink of an eye. This puts the onus on Sam Darnold to continue his eye-catching return to the starting lineup.
Darnold tasted his first loss of 2022 under center versus the Pittsburgh Steelers, but it was his best overall performance. The former USC star played turnover-free football once again, throwing for 225 passing yards, one touchdown, and earning a passer rating of 108.1.
He left some throws out there and needs to trust his legs more. However, this was a step in the right direction when one considers the running attack became stagnant and the offensive line endured their worst collective performance since Week 1.
Sunday’s home finale represents another good chance for Darnold to stake his claim. The Detroit Lions are giving up 265.1 yards per game through the air – better than only the Minnesota Vikings and Houston Texans – so the quarterback could get his first 300-yard passing game of the campaign providing the climate doesn’t complicate matters.