Lions-Panthers: First half open thread, live blog

Gameday is here and after a day of division in the state of Michigan, it’s time for us all to come together and root for our Detroit Lions.

This week, they host a hot Carolina Panthers team who just downed the defending Super Bowl champs on their home field. The Panthers, much like the Lions, currently sit at 3-1 and reside atop their division. A win today for either team would earn a stamp of legitimacy for their first month of success.

But it won’t come easy for either team. Both the Lions and Panthers sport legitimate defenses and a franchise quarterback. Cam Newton hasn’t put up stats like his 2015 MVP season, but last week’s 316-yard, three-touchdown performance was a big step in the right direction.

Matthew Stafford hasn’t quite been himself either. The Lions haven’t relied much on the highest-paid player in the NFL, leaving him with an underwhelming statline. Still, his 7:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio is one of the best in the league.

So settle in. Grab your nearest beverage and get ready for this Week 5 NFC showdown. If you aren’t quite hyped for the game yet, enjoy this official Detroit Lions Week 5 Hype Video.

Go Lions!