The Carolina Panthers travel to Detroit to face the feisty Lions on Sunday at 1:00 pm ET. The Lions easily beat the Packers Thursday night, with a score of 34-20, a statement victory over a division rival. David Montgomery was the hero, rushing for 121 yards and 3 TDs. I expect the Lions to continue to rely on their strong running game against the Panthers.
The Panthers have not been able to find a groove offensively. Bryce Young did not do much against the Vikings week 4, he threw for 204 yards and 0 TDs. The Panthers’ defense did force Cousins to throw 2 INTs, but the jury is out on whether or not that is typical Cousins play or due to the Panthers’ defense.
The game features the Lions, a team with playoff aspirations, a team who is on track to win its division; and the Panthers, a team who is going through a major rebuild and still trying to find its identity. Read my prediction, pick, and odds below.
Lions vs. Panthers Date, Start Time, And Where To Watch
Date: Sunday, October 8, 2023
Start Time: 1:00 pm ET
Where to Watch: FOX
Lions vs. Panthers Odds
Moneyline: Lions -425, Panthers +330
Spread: Lions -9.5, Panthers +9.5
O/U: 44.5
Lions vs. Panthers Prediction
The Lions rushing defense has been a huge surprise so far this season, ranking 1st overall, allowing an average of 61 YPG. Their offense is ranked 8th overall, averaging 386 YPG. This Lions team has been impressive through week 5. The Lions’ strong run defense should minimize production from Chuba Hubbard, forcing Bryce Young to win this game for the Panthers.
The Panthers have the 6th ranked passing defense, allowing an average of 197 YPG. They may be able to slow down Jared Goff and the passing game a little. The Panthers were somewhat effective against Kirk Cousins and the VIkings in week 4. The Panthers have the 27th ranked run defense, allowing an average of 136 YPG. The Panthers will have trouble stopping Montgomery and Gibbs, who have proven to be an effective running back duo.
For the most part, my pick in this game comes down to a few factors:
- The Lions are on a roll,
- Lions are at home,
- Panthers offense is struggling, and
- The Lions run defense is elite.
My pick is the Lions -9.5. They should win this game easily, even if the Panthers are able to slow down the passing game. Montgomery and Gibbs will be too much for the Panthers and Young will not be able to match the Lions offensively.
Lions vs. Panthers Best Bet
Lions -9.5 (-425 @ Draftkings)
Portfolio 
Leave a comment