This week The Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons have found themselves with losing records and are playing in a game that could give the winner the lead in the division.
After an impressive showing against Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Panthers are looking to shock all NFL week 8 predictions and take a major win against a divisional opponent.
Atlanta Falcons Season Forecast
The Atlanta Falcons find themselves with so far a disappointing season, yet a tie for first place in the NFC South with the Buccs at 3-4.
Atlanta’s biggest issue right now is that they have one of the worst pass defenses in the league, which gives up, on average, 306.6 yards through the air a game.
NFL Team Stats
Their defense makes up for it by being ranked 5th in NFL team stats for rushing yards, averaging 100.3 yards per game.
On the offensive side of the ball, it’s more of the same a lacking passing game made up by the fact that the Falcons are ranked 4th in the league for rushing yards per game at 156.9.
Regarding NFL players injuries, the Falcons are on the healthier side of things compared to other NFL teams around the league.
Going into the week, AJ Terrell and Jaylinn Hawkins are both listed as questionable, which could be a significant loss for an already struggling Atlanta squad.
Moneyline
Opening Line
When the Panthers vs Falcons moneyline opened on October 20th, the money line was -250 for the Falcons.
How the Line Has Moved and Why
The line is now sitting at -260. The night of the 20th, Christian McCaffery was traded to the 49ers, which has nudged the line a tad bit.
Though a bit pricey when it comes to Falcons betting picks, this is my favorite.
What Makes Lose the Bet
Carolina had unforeseen success without McCaffery, Mayfield, or Darnold.
However, it’s only one game, so we are unsure if the lightning will strike twice, but if it does, it could be a long day for the Falcons trying to stop PJ Walker’s aerial attack.
NFL Odds: (-260)
Spread Line
Opening Line
The spread opened at -6.5, having the Falcons as favorites.
How the Line Has Moved and Why
The spread moved in the opposite direction of the Panthers vs Falcons moneyline, which is due to the fact that Carolina definitely looked much more competitive than people were expecting against Tampa. I would stay away from the Falcons’ spread.
What Makes Lose the Bet
The Falcons showed against the 49ers the ability to blow opponents out, though it was the only time so far this year for it to happen. If lightning strikes twice, it could be a tough ask for the Panthers to keep up.
NFL Odds: -6 (-110)
Opening Line
The point total opened at 41.
How the Line Has Moved and Why
Though all of the other lines have moved, the point total has remained stagnant. Many, including myself, expect this to be a lower-scoring game.
What Makes Lose the Bet
The Falcons have only scored 24+ points twice this season, and even in a dominant win, I don’t think they score more than 23.
NFL Odds: 42 (-110)
Falcons Betting Trend to Know
The Falcons’ first loss against the spread occurred last week. Does the trend continue, or will they bounce back?
Panthers Season Forecast
The Panthers walked into their game against Tampa after firing their head coach a couple of weeks prior, trading their franchise running back, and without the top two QBs on their depth chart, they walked out with a win putting them at 2-5.
Now 2-5 may sound bad, but it puts them only a game behind Tampa and Atlanta for first place in the NFC South, a win here could give them the lead in the division, which would be one of the craziest turnarounds in NFL history.
The big questions revolve around the QB position. Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold are practicing now and looking to return to the roster though that return date is still up in the air as interim coach Steve Wilks has signaled that he will be taking a conservative approach when it comes to his QB’s health.
Though PJ Walker played better than either of them probably would’ve. Walker went 16/22 for 177 yards and 2 TDS, and a 126.5 Rating.
Moneyline
Opening Line
The Panthers vs Falcons moneyline opened at +210 for the panthers.
How the Line Has Moved and Why
Though the Panthers just shocked Tampa and the football world, they are still statistically not a great squad. They rank 22nd in opponent rushing yards allowed per game which plays directly into Atlanta’s strengths as a team.
I think the Panthers’ betting odds are what they should be, as I don’t see last week being the norm for Carolina.
What Makes Lose the Bet
If the Panthers play as they did before last week, they will have a hard time against an Atlanta team that gets you in a hole if you allow them to capitalize on your mistakes early.
NFL Odds: (+220)
Spread Line
Opening Line
The line opened at +6.5
How the Line Has Moved and Why
PJ Walker looked great and could give the Atlanta pass defense issues, especially since they already are lacking in that department. I like the Panthers spread and expect this game to be much closer than many believe it to be.
What Makes Lose the Bet
If the Panther retains nothing from last week and starts just as slow, it could cause some problems for the spread.
NFL Odds: +6 (-110)
Total
Opening Line
The Point total opened at 41 points on October 20th.
How the Line Has Moved and Why
The total hasn’t been moving as much as I would’ve liked it too. After last week I was wondering if it would go up a point or two. However, even at 40, I like the under.
What Makes Lose the Bet
Each offense plays to the weaknesses of the opposing defense and just has a field day on the scoreboard.
NFL Odds: 42 (-110)
Panthers Betting Trend to Know
The Panthers are 2-5 against the spread this year though they did cover last week. Are the Panthers hitting their stride?
Most Profitable Players of this Matchup to Bet On
Tyler Allgeier TD
NFL Pick: Falcons (-260)
If you love sports and want more sports betting information follow us as @InsidersBetDig on Twitter and sign up to our mailing list for free betting picks.
More related to Panthers vs Falcons
- Carolina Panthers Season Odds, Props and Futures
- Atlanta Falcons Season Odds, Props and Futures
- Carolina Panthers vs Atlanta Falcons