Carolina Panthers vs L.a. Chargers Picks and Predictions September 15th 2024

Chargers Eye 2-0 Start as They Host Panthers in Week 2

The Los Angeles Chargers are heading into Week 2 with momentum after a solid 22-10 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Jim Harbaugh’s debut as head coach. The Chargers (1-0) will now face the Carolina Panthers (0-1), who are looking to rebound after a 47-10 blowout loss to the New Orleans Saints.

Chargers’ Defense Dominates in Week 1

Led by defensive stars Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, the Chargers’ defense overwhelmed the Raiders, holding them to just one red-zone snap. The pass rush was relentless, with Bosa and Mack combining for three sacks, making life difficult for the Raiders’ offense. As they prepare to face Carolina, the Chargers’ defense will look to dial up the pressure on Bryce Young, who struggled in his NFL debut.

Young, the second-year quarterback for the Panthers, completed just 13 passes and threw two interceptions in his opener. With the Chargers’ defense firing on all cylinders, Young will need to step up his game to avoid similar struggles against Los Angeles.

Panthers head coach Dave Canales acknowledged Young’s challenges in Week 1 but emphasized the importance of building confidence and sticking to the fundamentals.

“It’s all about growth for Bryce,” Canales said. “We’re going to focus on the little things and build from there.”

Justin Herbert Leads Chargers’ Balanced Attack

Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert had a quiet outing in Week 1, finishing with 144 passing yards and a touchdown. However, the Chargers leaned on their rushing attack, with J.K. Dobbins stealing the show. Dobbins racked up 135 rushing yards on just 10 carries, including a 60-yard touchdown run that sealed the game.

With the Panthers’ defense reeling, especially after losing defensive tackle Derrick Brown to a season-ending knee injury, the Chargers are likely to test Carolina’s run defense again. Herbert, meanwhile, is expected to air it out more this week, targeting Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, who combined for 94 receiving yards in Week 1.

Jim Harbaugh Focused on Improvement

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh was pleased with the team’s Week 1 win but emphasized that there is still room for growth.

“We did a lot of good things, but we can always be better,” Harbaugh said. “This team has a great work ethic, and we’re focused on making the necessary adjustments as we prepare for Carolina.”

With the Panthers still finding their identity under Young and coming off a humbling loss, the Chargers have a prime opportunity to capitalize on their opponent’s weaknesses and start the season 2-0.

Key Injuries Heading into Week 2

• Chargers: Star pass rusher Joey Bosa (back) is listed as questionable for Sunday, while safety Alohi Gilman (knee) is doubtful. The team hopes Bosa will be ready to go, but his status remains uncertain as of Friday.
• Panthers: Five key players are questionable, including punter Johnny Hekker (back) and guard Damien Lewis (groin). The Panthers are already thin on defense following the loss of Derrick Brown, making their injury situation even more concerning.

Panthers Seek Redemption

The Panthers enter Week 2 looking to turn things around after their lopsided loss to the Saints. The offense struggled to gain any momentum, with Bryce Young unable to establish a rhythm. Young will need to develop better chemistry with his receivers and avoid costly turnovers if Carolina hopes to stay competitive against the Chargers’ fierce defense.

Defensively, the loss of Derrick Brown will be a significant blow to a unit that already struggled to contain New Orleans. Carolina’s ability to stop the run will be key, as J.K. Dobbins and the Chargers’ rushing attack will look to exploit any gaps up front.

Historical Dominance in the Series

While the Panthers have historically dominated this matchup, winning six of the last seven meetings, the Chargers are in a strong position to challenge that trend. With their defense clicking and Justin Herbert leading a balanced offense, Los Angeles looks ready to break Carolina’s recent hold on the series.