The New England Patriots will take on the Carolina Panthers in a week 9 matchup. Mac Jones and the Pats are still unsure of who they will be taking on at quarterback. If Sam Darnold is still in concussion protocol and battling a shoulder injury, PJ Walker would be next in line to start.

Panthers Keys to the Game

Run Game

With Christian McCaffrey, and potentially Sam Darnold ,out for Sundays game, rookie Chuba Hubbard will need to be extremely productive. The Patriots defense has given up on average 112 rushing yards per game this season. Hubbard has only gone for over 100 yards once this season. Hubbard will need to be productive against the Patriots, especially if they are starting PJ Walker.

Quarterback

With Darnold most likely not playing, PJ Walker needs to step up. Walker has only thrown for 33 yards this season. He has one career touchdown and five career interceptions. The Patriots have 10 interceptions so far this year, averaging more than one per game. Walker will have to play it safe while passing the ball; he can’t be taking chances against this defense.

DJ Moore and Robby Anderson

With Washington most likely being the starter, Moore and Anderson will need to get separation from the defense. The top receivers need to make it easier for their backup quarterback. If they can make plays, Washington can make the easy throw, they can still put up points.

Patriots Keys to the Game

Mac Jones

Mac Jones has been extremely successful in his rookie campaign. The Panthers defense is allowing just under 20 points a game to opponents. The Patriots are scoring 25 points per game. Jones and his receivers need to score their average and they should have a good chance to win. Jones has been starting to air the ball out deeper down the field as we get deeper into the season. Josh McDaniels and Bill Belichick are beginning to trust him more.

Defense

The Patriots defense needs to be ready for this game. The Panthers are not at 100% health, and will be starting two backups. Matt Judon and the rest of this Patriots defense should not take this offense lightly. The secondary should be trying to take advantage of an inexperienced Walker behind center.

Game Predictions

This game is the Patriots’ to lose. Both teams are 4-4, but the Patriots are healthier going into the game. This Patriots defense is very talented, and the Panthers are banged up, specifically on the offensive end.

Player Predictions

Mac Jones – 278 passing yards – 2 touchdowns

PJ Walker – 215 passing yards – 1 touchdown

DJ Moore – 87 receiving yards – 7 receptions

Damien Harris – 88 rushing yards – 2 touchdowns

Score Prediction

Patriots 35 – Panthers 21

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