Lions- Panthers
Time: 1 PM EST
Line: CAR -3
Total: 43.5
Betting odds courtesy of Bookmaker
The Carolina Panthers were able to score a victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite missing QB Cam Newton, the Panthers won 20 to 14.
Backup QB Derek Anderson had an excellent game, completing 70.6 percent of his passes, and two TDs with no interceptions.
Anderson’s performance was good for a 108 QB rating. But still, Newton brings an added dimension the offense, and there’s a slim chance that Anderson steal the gig.
The Panthers have not started a season 2-0 since 2008. Newton commented, “It’s great to be out there grinding with the entire team and not have any restraints..”
Rookie Kevin Benjaman impressed in Week 1. He’s 6’5”, which will make him a red zone target quite often. He caught six passes for 92 yards with a TD.
TE Greg Olson was responsible for the other TD.
Benjamin, though should be the top receiver. Olson, meanwhile has improved on his receptions in each of his three season with Cam Newton. Newton will benefit from these two targets, and Benjamin may be just scratching the surface of what he is capable of.
The Detroit Lions won 35-14 in Week 1, facing the New York Giants. The defense held the Giants to just 197 yards. The Lions also had two more turnovers, which is a big improvement over last year’s unit.
Matt Stafford and the best WR in the league Calvin Johnson are a very dangerous combination. Johnson accounted for 164 yards on seven receptions. Stafford was 22 of 36 for 346 yards and two TDs.
The Lions, however, were unable to get much on the ground, as they averaged just 2.5 yards per carry. It can be attributed to injures. Corey Hilliard suffered a Lisfranc injury and it will require surgery. LaAdrian Waddle also sustained a calf injury and will not play this week. Nickel CB Bill Bentley is also out for the season, which depletes the backfield.
DeAngelo Williams is questionable to play this game. Last week, he rushed for 72 yards on 14 attempts. His absence will be felt with the Lions , who are now relegated to use Johnathan Stewart as the primary ball carrier. Last week he had just 20 yards on nine carries, good for a 2.2 yard average run. We may see Stafford airing it out a good bit, but the lack of backfield options will inhibit his ability fake handoffs. Why would Stafford do anything else with a very mediocre option as the No. 1 ball carrier.
