The Detroit Lions have reached a pivotal point in Matt Patricia’s first season as head coach. Defeated and seemingly demoralized, the Lions limped their way along into this week still trying to convince fans that, regardless of the on-field product, tanking isn’t a part of the team’s way ahead.
Not yet mathematically eliminated from playoff contention, the Lions would need to grit and grind in order to try and gain a win over a strong opponent, the 6-3 Carolina Panthers, on their home turf.
First Quarter
Detroit ceded the ball to Carolina’s offense to open this game and the Lion defense took the field to try and fend off Carolina’s electric quarterback Cam Newton.