The Sun-Times’ Bears experts make their picks for the season opener in Charlotte, N.C.:
Patrick Finley
Panthers, 27-26: Winning on the road is hard. Particularly when the forecast at Bank of America Stadium on Sunday is for 89 degrees — and a 101-degree real feel. The Bears defense will have too much trouble with an offense the kids call “mid.” Last season: 10-9.
Jason Lieser
Bears, 30- 24: The Bears can’t start slowly in any regard this season. They’re on the road, sure, but the Panthers were 8-9 last season, and even with some defensive concerns, the Bears should be able to handle them. Last season: 11-8.
Scoop Jackson
Panthers, 23-20: Despite personal belief (and what’s written in a column) this Week 1 might mean more to Carolina than the Bears. The Panthers new revamped defense will take the Bears offense by surprise. An early wake-up call. Last season: 10-9.
Steve Greenberg
Bears, 30-27: The Bears flip the script from last season by starting fast, building a nice lead and then hanging on for dear life. What, you thought this was going to be easy? Never. Last season: 13-6.
Jeff Agrest
Panthers, 27-23: I believe in ghosts more than I believe in the Bears’ defense, which could be scary bad (see what I did there?). That’s why I’m taking the home underdog. Plus, Panthers quarterback Bryce Young’s ascent will continue. Last season: N/A.
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