Predictions: Panthers-Lions

Predicting Lions' Week 5 contest against Panthers.

John Maakaron

The Lions are going to be without Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jahmyr Gibbs this week. 

Despite not having key offensive weapons, the return of Jameson Williams will provide the offense a spark. 

Ben Johnson still has enough weapons to get the job done this week, as tight end Sam LaPorta and David Montgomery will be called upon to make plays. 

Jared Goff will have a solid performance, guiding the offense against a Panthers defense that is not that formidable. 

Detroit's defense should force Bryce Young into making a couple of mistakes, as the home-field advantage at Ford Field will stifle the young, inexperienced quarterback 

While the Lions started the week as heavy favorites, they should be able to defeat the Panthers to improve their record to 4-1. 

Lions 27, Panthers 17

Christian Booher 

After a long week off, the Lions offense should be humming in their return to Ford Field. The matchup with the Carolina Panthers carries weight, as they have a chance to get revenge for the stunning defeat last season.

The Lions defense is much improved and playing at a league-best rate right now. I expect that performance to continue throughout Sunday's game against a rookie quarterback and a struggling offensive line.

The Lions offense could be without multiple playmakers, but they have depth that will allow them to feel comfortable. Jared Goff will bounce back after three straight games with an interception and play a solid game.

This one will be all Lions early before Carolina makes it interesting in the second half. 

Lions 35, Panthers 13

Report: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs Out against Panthers

Camren Clouthier

The Lions are winners of their last two, having defeated the Packers last week at Lambeau Field. They look to continue that momentum this weekend against the Panthers.

The Panthers, like Detroit, are a scrappy young team. 

However, they are winless on the season, starting 0-4 in 2023. Look for the Lions to exploit all their advantages on both sides of the football, as they hope to get the victory after losing to the Panthers in a not-so-close game last season.

Gone are the days of Cam Newton, Luke Keuchly, and Christian McCaffrey. And honestly, the Panthers really aren't that formidable anymore. 

The Lions are unquestionably the favorite in this matchup. As long as the offense and defense execute at a high level, this should be a walk in the park for the hometown team.

Lions 31, Panthers 20