I disagree with the belief that Ron Rivera will be the first coach fired this year. I think it will be Jim Schwartz. Panthers just aren't on the same level as the Saints and Falcons. They aren't ready to compete but for Ron Rivera's presence, and with Chudzinski gone, there is no one waiting in the wings to audition for next season. The Panthers are losing due to a lack of talent. They just aren't there yet.
The Lions on the other hand are beating themselves. They are one of the most purely talented teams in the NFL, yet it is going to waste in a huge way. I think if they are under .500 at their bye week (in Week 9), they will fire Schwartz and give Scott Linehan the reigns. He may not be "auditioning," but he has some head coaching experience and can hold down fort until next season and possibly even put together a respectable run.