Week 5 NFL picks: Staff predictions for Lions-Panthers

This week, the Detroit Lions enjoyed a fair amount of positive press. A few publications had them ranked No. 2 in their weekly power rankings. A couple more had Matthew Stafford in their top three in MVP watch.

This is what life at the top is like, and if you’re a Lions fan, it may take some getting used to.

The Carolina Panthers are also 3-1 this year, but don’t seem to have the same amount of hype around them. Maybe it’s their blowout loss to the Saints, maybe it’s because they’re not as big of a surprise, to some, as the Lions.

But the folks here at Pride of Detroit are taking the wave of optimism and absolutely running with it. All 10 members of the staff are taking Detroit to win this week. Take a look at our predictions.

Chris Perfett (4-0): 13-4 Lions
Alex Reno (4-0): 23-17 Lions
Mike Payton (3-1): 28-17 Lions
Justin Simon (3-1): 24-13 Lions
Kent Lee Platte (3-1): 34-10 Lions
Ryan Mathews (3-1): 42-13 Lions
Kyle Yost (2-2): 27-21 Lions
Jeremy Reisman (2-2): 20-16 Lions
Andrew Kato (2-2): 20-16 Lions
Jerry Mallory (1-2): 23-13 Lions

This is the first time there has been unanimity amongst the staff this season, so buyer beware.

Now it’s your turn to make your picks. Vote in the poll below and be sure to give your score prediction in the comment section for a chance to be mentioned in next week’s On Paper column.