10 quick thoughts from the Panthers win vs. Lions in Week 16

Carolina Panthers set the tone early

If the Carolina Panthers wanted to make their intentions clear, they managed it on the opening drive. The running backs and the offensive line took last weekend’s failure against the Pittsburgh Steelers personally and immediately set about imposing themselves at the earliest opportunity.

Carolina gained 83 rushing yards from five carries – most of which came from Chuba Hubbard – en route to a Raheem Blackshear score. A starts go, this was exactly what Steve Wilks would have wanted after such a poor showing last time out.

Carolina Panthers dominated the first half

There’s no doubt Steve Wilks was looking for a positive response from his players this weekend. A challenge that was met in no uncertain terms thanks to a prolific first-half showing at Bank of America Stadium.

The Panthers won in the trenches, controlled the clock, and had their way with the Detroit Lions. This allowed them to head into the halftime interval with a comfortable advantage that was richly deserved.

Carolina Panthers got another nice day from Terrace Marshall Jr.

Much of the focus was rightfully on the dominant rushing attack, but the Panthers got another encouraging performance from Terrace Marshall Jr. The wide receiver continues to flourish without Matt Rhule, which leaves hope he can emerge into a legitimate No. 2 option behind D.J. Moore moving forward.

Marshall finished the game with two receptions from three targets for 55 receiving yards. Not jaw-dropping, but it was another huge step in the right direction nonetheless.