The Michigan Panthers’ final home game is this Saturday at Ford Field. There is no doubt that many players have drawn the interest of NFL scouts after a strong season, making it the last chance to possibly see some in a Panthers uniform. The team will have MVP front runner Bryce Perkins sidelined for this game ahead of the playoffs, but Michigan fans will see a familiar name starting at quarterback in Michigan State alumnus Rocky Lombardi.
The first 2,000 fans at the game will receive a Jake Bates bobblehead, who went on to kick for the Detroit Lions after playing for the Panthers last season.
Future NFL Talent on Display
The Panthers boast a roster with multiple players likely catching the eyes of NFL scouts. Quarterback Bryce Perkins, though sidelined for this final regular-season game, has been a revelation with his dual-threat play, breaking tackles for big gains and delivering deep passes. Wide receivers Siaosi Mariner and Malike Turner have been impressive pass catchers.
On defense, players like DE Breeland Speaks and LB Frank Ginda have frequented NFL rosters in preseasons following seasons with the Michigan Panthers. The defense has had so many players have impressive seasons. From the secondary, CB Kedrick Whitehead and S Arnold Tarpley are having great seasons and have been on NFL teams in the past.
This is just to name a few of the Panthers on NFL radars.
A Roster Poised for Change
The Panthers may not look the same come 2026. With strong play from several players, the team could lose key pieces to NFL contracts after the playoffs. Last season saw Jake Bates sign with the Detroit Lions following the UFL season. There were 17 total players from the Panthers who spent time on NFL training camps last year.
This year’s Panthers feel different, with the offense being the most efficient and fun to watch since the Panthers started playing in Ford Field. Quarterback Bryce Perkins will certainly get an opportunity with an NFL team this fall, as will many other Panthers’ players, and you never know what some of those opportunities could lead to.
Affordable Football in a Skyrocketing Market
With Detroit Lions ticket prices soaring to astronomical levels driven by the team’s recent success, attending an NFL game has become a financial stretch for many. The Panthers, however, offer professional football intensity at family-friendly prices. Bring the kids, pack the stands, and soak in the electric atmosphere of Ford Field without financial suffering.
An Electrifying Team to Watch
The Panthers have been a thrill ride all season, delivering big plays, clutch moments, and relentless energy. Even without Perkins for this game, the team’s dynamic roster will deliver a great product. With the roster’s future uncertain with NFL interest on the horizon, this is the perfect time to catch their explosive brand of football before some of these stars potentially move on to NFL careers.
Detroit’s Fans: The NFL’s Best
Detroit’s football fans have supported the Lions through decades of heartbreak and misery. There are many great fan bases across the NFL but if I had to pick 1 as the best I would say it is the fans of the Detroit Lions. They have been the most loyal, honorably standing by their team through decades of suffering. Now, they can channel that passion into sending the Panthers off to the UFL playoffs in Birmingham with a roar. Detroit football fans are extremely passionate, and the city comes to life for every NFL game. Even in the past NFL preseason, the noise from the fans caused multiple problems for the visiting team, leading to delay-of-game penalties. This energy is also present at Panthers’ games, the noise levels are often so much higher than what would be expected from the number of people in attendance.
If you’re an NFL fan in the Detroit area who hasn’t gone to a Panthers’ game this season, you have 1 more chance to do so. I wouldn’t be surprised to see some of these players go on to make a real impact in the NFL. Last year, many enjoyed being able to say they saw Jake Bates before he became a Detroit Lions fan favorite.
