Carolina Panthers 2026 Game-by-Game Prediction

The Carolina Panthers are entering the 2026 NFL season ready to prove themselves once again after making the playoffs last year.

Carolina finished last season with a record of 8-9, winning the NFC South division. But as the team gets ready for the new year, the Panthers are looking to build on this success.

Much of this will fall on the shoulders of quarterback Bryce Young, with Carolina looking to him to take another step. So, how many games will the Panthers win this season?

Here is a game-by-game prediction for the Panthers' 2026 season:

Week 1: vs Bears, Loss

A matchup between two playoff teams from a year ago makes for a fun Week 1 game. But unfortunately for the Panthers, Caleb Williams outduels Young, handing Carolina a loss to open the year.

Week 2: at Falcons, Win

The Falcons quarterback situation is in a tough spot right now. Because of this, Carolina goes on the road to pick up a big first win of the year.

Week 3: at Browns, Loss

This is an ugly game all around for both teams, with Young throwing a few interceptions. But the Browns get a big stop late to steal the win.

Week 4: vs Lions, Win

The Panthers snap a three-game losing streak to open the year against the Lions. Young leads a late-game comeback to grab a win before an early-season bye week.

Week 5: Bye Week

Week 6: at Eagles, Loss

Coming off the bye, the Panthers run into a tough Eagles defense. Carolina can't keep up, dropping another game.

Week 7: vs Buccaneers, Win

Playing a division game at home gives the Panthers an edge, and Carolina uses it to their advantage. Young outplays Baker Mayfield, leading the Panthers to a massive win.

Week 8: at Packers, Loss

Going to Lambeau Field can be rough for some teams. But Carolina plays a strong game, leading late in the fourth quarter.

But a late interception dooms the Panthers' chance to pick up a big win.

Week 9: vs Broncos, Loss

The Broncos' defense poses a threat to the Panthers, and Young struggles in this game. Carolina loses by 15 or more.

Week 10: at Saints, Loss

Carolina has its first chance to play the Saints, but a late fumble on offense leads to a game-winning drive from New Orleans. The Panthers can't overcome this, falling to a third straight loss.

Week 11: vs Ravens, Loss

Lamar Jackson faces Young in what could be a fun matchup. But Carolina can't overcome the offensive struggles, dropping a fourth straight game.

Week 12: at Buccaneers, Win

The Panthers defense steps up in this game. Additionally, Young again outplays Mayfield, leading to a series sweep of the Buccaneers.

Week 13: at Vikings, Win

Carolina's defense swarms Kyle Murray, sacking him five times in this game. Young does enough to win the game, sending the Panthers to another win.

Week 14: vs Saints, Win

The Panthers get some revenge against New Orleans for the earlier match. Carolina grabs its second win in its last three games, keeping its postseason chances alive, barely.

Week 15: vs Bengals, Loss

Carolina welcomes Joe Burrow and company to town, but the Cincinnati offense is too much for the Panthers. Young can't keep up, with Carolina falling in this game.

Week 16: at Steelers, Loss

It's never easy playing in Pittsburgh, and the Panthers can't get a win here. Young throws three interceptions, leading to an easy win for the Steelers

Week 17: vs Seahawks, Loss

Carolina can't escape a tough Seahawks defense, falling short at home. Young does play well; however, throwing for three touchdowns in the loss.

Week 18: vs Falcons, Win

Carolina ends the season with a win over the Falcons, ending Atlanta's playoff chances. But the Panthers do miss the playoffs themselves.

Final Prediction: 7-10, miss the playoffs