Can the Carolina Panthers finally get back into the win column this Sunday against the host Tennessee Titans?
If they do, here are four key matchups that’ll him help notch their second victory here in Week 12:
Panthers QB Bryce Young vs. Titans QB Will Levis
The last time Young suited up against one of the top quarterbacks in his class, he got his first and only win. So that may be a trend he hopes to continue.
All eyes will be on the apparent futures of these franchises, in both Pick No. 1 and Pick No. 33. Levis and Young have been hot and cold in their various games, and it feels like the one who can keep mistakes to a minimum and show the most growth may walk away with the dub.
Panthers CBs vs. Titans WRs
It’s a brutal reality that the Panthers are, perhaps, the most injury-ravaged team in the league. The painful trend will continue into Nashville, where they’ll likely be fielding an undermanned secondary.
Both Jaycee Horn (hamstring) and CJ Henderson (concussion) have been ruled as doubtful for the contest, leaving the starter opposite of Donte Jackson a mystery. But whoever it is—whether that be Troy Hill, D’Shawn Jamison, David Long Jr. or someone from the practice squad—they’ll have a tough task in Titans wideout DeAndre Hopkins ahead.
Panthers iOL vs. Titans DL Jeffery Simmons
Keeping on the theme of injuries, starting right guard Austin Corbett has been lost for the rest of the season due to an MCL injury. So, it may be time for the Panthers to sandwich center Bradley Bozeman with the youngsters Chandler Zavala and Cade Mays.
Neither guard has really shown much in their protection of their rookie quarterback—and this week, they face off against one of the most dominant defenders in the league. This interior line has to be better to avoid yet another disastrous game for Young.
Panthers DL Derrick Brown vs. Titans RB Derrick Henry
This game may come down to stopping the future Hall of Famer in Henry. Both offenses have been sputtering as of late—and if the Titans are able to lean on a player that has carried them through the years, it will be a long day for Carolina.
Brown is currently the best player on Carolina’s defense, and he will be the first man up at shutting down this running attack. If Brown can help penetrate early and make the Titans one-dimensional, the Panthers could sneak out their second win of the season.
