3 key Carolina Panthers storylines to monitor vs. the Lions in Week 16

How much fight remains within the Carolina Panthers?

Steve Wilks got a taste of his own medicine when the Pittsburgh Steelers came to Bank of America Stadium in Week 15. The visitors were exceptionally-well prepared by Mike Tomlin, bringing a physicality to dominate the trenches and win individual battles all over the field from start to finish.

It was an embarrassing loss considering how hopeful everyone associated with the franchise became throughout the week. Wilks was eager to take full responsibility, but the players didn’t execute and must raise their performance levels if they want their interim head coach to finish on a high.

Many within the locker room are pulling hard for Wilks to get the job. But after such a lackluster outing, one has to wonder just how much fight remains within the Carolina Panthers after a brutal campaign.

We’ll find out more about Wilks’ ability to galvanize the troops at his disposal in Week 16. This is also a test of character for the players, who won’t want a repeat of what transpired with all to play for in the NFC South championship race.

For all their previous faults under Dan Campbell, the Detroit Lions never stopped fighting for every inch and are now reaping the rewards as one of the league’s in-form squads. So the threat is obvious and something Carolina must give the utmost respect.