3 Biggest X-Factors For Panthers to Bounce Back vs Broncos

The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for a big matchup this weekend, with the team hosting the Denver Broncos.

Carolina is coming off another loss last week to the Green Bay Packers, with the game sending the team's record to 3-4 on the year. This team has started to flounder over the last few weeks, with the offense slowing down.

The game against the Broncos will be tough, especially with Denver having a strong defense. Carolina can't afford to lose this game, especially with others in the NFC South starting to play better.

As for the Broncos, they will be entering the game with a record of 6-2 on the season, sitting in first place in the AFC West. Denver has started to put it all together over the last few weeks after a slow start.

Here here three of the biggest X-Factors for the Panthers to take down the Broncos this week:

1. Get Bryce Young Back in Rhythm

After the first few weeks of the season, quarterback Bryce Young looked like a potential MVP candidate for the Panthers. But over the last few weeks, the offense has stalled, with Young regressing a little.

Young will need to find a way to get back into rhythm against this tough Broncos defense, throwing the ball all over the field. Carolina was at its best when Young was playing well, and he is a major key to the game.

2. Offensive Line Holds Up

One way to help Young get back to form is for the offensive line to play much better than they have in recent weeks. The offensive line has allowed 23 sacks this season, which hasn't put Young in a good place to succeed at times.

Against a tough Denver pass rush, the offensive line is going to have to find a way to hold up, giving Young time to throw the ball. If the group can do this, Carolina may be able to come out with a win.

3. Keep Bo Nix in Pocket

One way to give yourself a better chance to win against the Broncos is to force quarterback Bo Nix to throw the ball. Nix can make things happen with his arm, but he can become dangerous when he gets out of the pocket.

The Panthers defense will be tasked with keeping him in the pocket, avoiding any major gains on the ground. Carolina's defense has been somewhat of a problem this season, so this could be easier said than done.