NFL Playoffs: 5 bold predictions for Panthers vs. Cardinals
By Evan Massey
What five bold predictions can be made about the Carolina Panthers vs. Arizona Cardinals wildcard NFL Playoffs matchup?
The Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals are set to the open the NFL playoffs this afternoon, and it is expected to be a very entertaining game with both teams having a lot to prove.
As far as the Panthers are concerned, they are looking to prove that they belong in the postseason. After finishing the year with a 7-8-1 record, there are quite a few fans and analysts that don’t believe they are a legitimate playoff contender. Last season, the Panthers were a breakout team and had one of the best defenses in the NFL.
Arizona on the other hand is trying to prove that they are legitimate contenders with third-string quarterback Ryan Lindley leading the way. Both Carson Palmer and Drew Stanton have gone down with knee injuries, while starting running back Andre Ellington is also done for the season after undergoing sports hernia surgery. Lindley has a lot on his shoulders, but the Cardinals still firmly believe that they are contenders.
It is going to be a good game between two defenses that are capable of locking down the opposing offense. Neither defense performed like they were top defenses throughout the regular season, but they are both capable of turning that around in the playoffs.
All of that being said, what five bold predictions can be made for the first game of the 2014 NFL Playoffs between two very hungry football teams?
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