NFL Picks: Preseason Week 3 Lions vs Panthers

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At the Bank of America Stadium this Friday, an intense NFL showdown is anticipated between the Detroit Lions and the Carolina Panthers, with kickoff slated for 8:00 p.m. ET.

The Detroit Lions are keenly looking forward to a season that’s much-awaited by their fans. After a commendable performance last season, with a tally of nine wins, the Lions are eagerly setting their eyes on the NFC North title for 2023-24. Will they take the giant leap this season?

On the other side of the field, the Carolina Panthers have been grappling with form. Last season, their record stood at 7-10. And even though they have a prodigious talent in the form of rookie quarterback Bryce Young, the journey to the playoffs looks tough. Bryce, a star from Alabama, has been nothing short of sensational at the college level. But the pressing question is: Can this first overall draft pick withstand the colossal pressure of being the frontman of an NFL franchise?

Interestingly, both teams will lock horns again in Week 5. Hence, in this preseason finale on Friday, it’s quite plausible that both teams might employ a more guarded strategy. The results of this game will be important for the NFL Odds of the Week 5 matchup.

BUSR NFL Lines:

• Spread: Lions +4.5 (-110), Panthers -4.5 (-110) 
• Moneyline: Lions +168, Panthers -210
• Total: Lions O 37 (-110), Panthers U 37 (-110) 

Carolina’s Challenge Ahead

With two preseason losses already under its belt, the path is not looking rosy for Carolina. After a heavy 27-0 defeat to the Jets and a nail-biting 21-19 loss to the Giants, the team needs to up its game when facing the Lions.

However, there’s a glimmer of hope. Bryce Young, the 22-year-old quarterback, showed glimpses of his college-level brilliance in the recent game against the Giants. Alongside, Matt Corral, the third-string quarterback, has been making his presence felt. Especially in the absence of backup QB Andy Dalton, Corral has been instrumental in leading scoring drives. The defense, although a bit shaky, showed promise by keeping the Giants at bay during the second half.

Injury woes have hit the Panthers hard. Key players like RB Miles Sanders and WR Terrace Marshall Jr. are out due to injuries, while others like WR Laviska Shenault Jr. are doubtful starters.

The Lions: Hungry for More

Detroit Lions fans have something to cheer about after their team’s 21-16 victory against the New York Giants in the preseason opener. However, the joy was short-lived as they faced a heavy 25-7 defeat against Jacksonville. Coach Dan Campbell has hinted that the main players might not see much action in Friday’s game.

The Lions are banking on QBs Nate Sudfield and Teddy Bridgewater to be at their best. The defense, however, needs a massive boost, especially after the recent game against the Jags. The sole shining armor was rookie cornerback Steven Gilmore who displayed commendable agility and skill.

Injuries and suspensions have also plagued the Lions. Prominent players like QB Hendon Hooker and WR Jameson Williams are not in the lineup for various reasons, and WR Amon-Ra St. Brown’s participation hangs in the balance due to an injury.

Recommendations

Considering the form and team lineups, I’d place my bet on the Carolina Panthers to emerge victorious and cover the spread in this preseason face-off. The Lions’ strategy of probably sidelining their main players provides a golden opportunity for the Panthers to capitalize.

Detroit’s recent game was characterized by poor third-down conversions, while Carolina’s failure to close down the drives in their initial preseason matches might turn around against the Lions’ defense.

Even if the Panthers decide to rest their primary squad, they have a bunch of young, eager players waiting for their turn under the spotlight. With Matt Corral yet to stamp his authority in the NFL, I foresee him taking the lead this Friday, ensuring a triumphant evening for the home team.