[1:00 PM] Panthers @ Saints

Who will WIN this matchup?

Carolina Panthers (1-4)

@ New Orleans Saints (1-3)

 

Current odds:

Carolina Panthers: (-145)

New Orleans Saints: (+125)

 

• ESPN simulations have Carolina as XX% favorites to cover the spread.

• XX% of sports bets are currently on New Orleans to win as (TBD) underdogs.

• The line for this game is Panthers by 2.5 points.

• The Carolina Panthers desperately need Cam Newton on the field – and in last year’s MVP form – if they’re going to overcome a disastrous start to the season. The reigning NFC champions hope to have their star quarterback under center when they aim to snap a three-game losing streak Sunday against the host New Orleans Saints.

• Along with Newton, the Panthers hope to get running back Jonathan Stewart (hamstring) back on Sunday, but they could be without receiver Kelvin Benjamin (knee). Carolina has moved the ball effectively – ranking third in the NFL in total offense – but has been undone by a league-worst 14 turnovers. The giveaways have made things difficult for a defense that has held four of five opponents to 315 total yards or fewer but has been put in too many short-field situations.

• New Orleans ranks last in the league in total defense and 31st in scoring defense, but it held San Diego to 38 rushing yards and forced three turnovers. They’ve had an especially tough time stopping the pass, however, which could be a problem if Newton is able to go. Drew Brees and the offense have been boom-or-bust, putting up 507 and 474 total yards in two games but being held under 300 in the other two.

• Newton has passed for 872 yards with 10 touchdowns and one interception in his last three games against New Orleans, including a 331-yard, five-TD performance in the most recent meeting.

• Brees has thrown 27 touchdown passes in his last seven home games.

• New Orleans WR Brandin Cooks has six touchdown receptions in his last seven home contests and made six catches for 104 yards and a TD in his last game against Carolina.

 

StreakSmarts Pick: Carolina Panthers

Confidence: 5/10

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