[1:00 PM] Chiefs @ Panthers

Who will WIN this matchup?

Kansas City Chiefs (6-2)

@ Carolina Panthers (3-5)

 

Current odds:

Kansas City Chiefs: (+150)

Carolina Panthers: (-170)

 

• ESPN simulations have Kansas City as XX% favorites to win the game.

• XX% of sports bets are currently on Carolina to win as (TBD) favorites.

• The line for this game is Carolina by 3 points.

• The Kansas City Chiefs aim for their fifth straight victory Sunday at Carolina, where the Panthers hope to continue a surge of their own. The Chiefs can grab a share of the AFC West lead with a win, while Carolina needs a third consecutive victory to climb back into the playoff picture.

• Kansas City’s offense doesn’t put up flashy numbers, but Smith takes care of the ball and Ware has been a workhorse when healthy. Getting Houston back in the mix would add another pass-rushing element to a stout defense that already includes linebacker Dee Ford, who is tied for third in the league with nine sacks – eight of which have come in the last five games. The Chiefs’ biggest weakness is stopping the run, which could be an issue against a strong Carolina ground attack.

• Carolina’s offense sputtered to a season-low 244 total yards against the Rams, but the Panthers did not commit a turnover for the first time this season. The running game hasn’t been as effective as last season, but quarterback Cam Newton and running back Jonathan Stewart still form a formidable duo for any defense to stop. The Panthers have stifled the run but struggled against the pass despite leading the NFC with 24 sacks.

• Kansas City leads the NFL in takeaways (20) and turnover margin (plus-13).

• Carolina’s Greg Olsen leads NFL tight ends in receptions (45) and receiving yards (673).

• Chiefs WR Jeremy Maclin (30 receptions, 376 yards) is not expected to play after aggravating a groin injury last week.

 

StreakSmarts Pick: Carolina Panthers

Confidence: 5/10

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