Predictions: Lions-Panthers

Predictions for the Lions' preseason finale with the Carolina Panthers Friday.

John Maakaron

The Lions' reserves are going to have a much better effort, as the performance against the Jaguars was clearly subpar. 

With roster cuts looming, players are going to want to perform at their best, making the third preseason game still interesting to watch. 

I expect Dylan Drummond, Chase Cota, Teddy Bridgewater, Nate Sudfeld and Craig Reynolds to make their best attempt to impress Detroit's coaching staff. 

On defense, Detroit's linebackers and defensive backs are competing at a high level, giving Dan Campbell's squad the slight edge in the preseason finale. 

Lions 23, Panthers 20

Christian Booher

The Lions are just under two weeks away from their regular season opener. As a result, many of their starters will likely be sidelined for Friday's preseason finale. This doesn't mean that the game will be without intrigue, though.

I expect Teddy Bridgewater to have an improved showing in his second appearance with the Lions. The veteran should be in a better groove, and if the offensive line holds up, then the offense should put up some points.

In the finale, I'll be more concentrated on the position battles than the final score. However, I'll give the edge to Carolina in the finale, given the Lions' offensive depth struggles and lackluster performances as of late. 

Panthers 21, Lions 13

Vito Chirco 

At last, the Lions' preseason finale is here. 

The Lions will once again be sitting their starters, while Carolina will be playing its first-stringers. Subsequently, expect Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, the No. 1 overall pick in this past April's draft, to get a healthy dose of reps. 

I don't expect Young, who has completed 7-of-12 passes for 56 yards, with zero touchdowns and zero interceptions, this preseason, to light the world on fire against Detroit's second-and-third-team defenders. 

However, I still expect Young and the Panthers' offense to muster up enough points to secure the Week 3 preseason victory.

Panthers 24, Lions 20