The Detroit Lions look to keep their hot start going when they travel to Carolina to face off against the Panthers. The Panthers themselves have had a rough start to the year but their top pick Bryce Young isn’t showing any signs of giving up nor are his teammates.
Could this be a trap game for the Lions? Perhaps. Could this be a good lesson for a team on a long road that they hope doesn’t end till February? Yes.
Buy Lions TicketsThis game has some interesting matchups to look at and analyze. For the Panthers especially, their passing offense is primed for some sort of success as Young gets more NFL reps. The Lions should have the advantage in that department and others but it will come down to some critical matchups.
Lions offensive line vs. Panthers defensive line
The Lions’ offensive line has been one of the best in the entire NFL through four games in 2023. In week five, however, they are going to have a stiff test in the Panthers pass rush. They have 12 sacks through four games with edge rusher Brian Burns leading the way with three himself. Taylor Decker may be busy all Sunday dealing with him and others but they should be more than up for the task.
Adam Thielen vs. Lions secondary
Adam Thielen has shown he has some juice left in the tank for Bryce Young and his opponents. While he isn’t the All-Pro he once was, he could be a stern test for a Lions secondary that he has had success against in the past. Stopping him would almost certainly bring the Panthers offense to a screeching halt.
David Montgomery vs. Panthers front seven
The Lions have seemingly found the diamond in the rough that is David Montgomery and given him the keys to this offense. Coming off a masterful performance against the Packers in week four, week five could have similar results. The Panthers have size and speed in their front seven but Montgomery should keep the upper hand.
Aaron Glenn vs. Bryce Young's decision making
This may seem like an odd matchup but it is one that not many have been able to win against Bryce Young in his career. In 38 games between college and the NFL, Young has only thrown two interceptions three times in his career. Aaron Glenn and this Lions defense scheming and manipulating his vision of the defense to cause at least two turnovers could make all the difference in this game.
