Carolina Panthers vs New Orleans Saints Betting Picks, Lines & Predictions
Coming off a bye week, the Saints (3-2 SU, 2-3 ATS) will be looking to notch their third consecutive win as they host NFC South rivals Panthers (3-3 SU 3-3ATS) on Sunday afternoon. The talented Carolina team has shown a lot of improvement over the last two weeks but was rather disappointing last week, losing at home to Chicago. The New Orleans Saints holds the upper hand in the matchup, having won seven of the last nine meetings.
Carolina Panthers vs New Orleans Saints Betting Lines Movement
The pay per head bookies see the Saints as the firm favorites in the matchup and the line is at -7 or -7.5 depending on where you place your wager. The total has been steady all week and stands at 51.5 at the moment.
Thoughts On The Carolina Panthers Beating The New Orleans Saints
With three wins this campaign, The Panthers have exceeded the preseason expectations so far, especially considering they have been without Christian McCaffrey, the highest-paid running back in the NFL history, since week 2. But, Mike Davis stepped up to make up for most of McCaffrey’s production, and the passing attack has been excellent. The defense has been also quietly put in some good performances, secondary in particular, shutting down Kyler Murray, Matt Ryan, and Nick Foles in consecutive weeks. However, the rush defense remains an issue, especially considering that they’re going against Alvin Kamara this week.
In McCaffrey’s absence, Mike Davis continues to be a viable fantasy pick, but the Panthers are coming off a short week and he seemed a little out of gas against Chicago. Perhaps one of the wide receivers, Robby Anderson or D.J. Moore, could be a better option if we take into account how poor the Saints defense is against passing. Anderson provided steady production all season, while Moore has two consecutive games with exactly 93 receiving yards.
Thoughts On The New Orleans Saints Beating The Carolina Panthers
The mileage seems to be catching up with Drew Brees and this year’s performances are not at the HoF level, but he is still in the upper echelon of the QBs in the league and capable of leading a contending team. His job this year has been made easier with RBs Alvin Kamara and Latavius Murray carrying a good portion of the offensive load. We can expect more of the same on Sunday as they face Carolina’s dreadful rushing defense. The Saints’ defense has been the opposite of their rivals so far, excelling against running, but having plenty of problems when the opponent attacks through the air.
Alvin Kamara has been a No1 fantasy option for many this year and this week should be no different, despite the Michael Thomas return, as he will surely have a field day facing one of the worst run defenses in football. After being benched last week for fighting a teammate, Michael Thomas will finally make his return and will surely be raring to go. Carolina is solid against passing, but if the Saints’ WR is fully fit, there’s no defense in the league that can contain him.
Carolina Panthers Vs. New Orleans Saints Betting Picks, & Prediction: Under 51.5
The Panthers’ defense has proven its credentials so far and will probably be boosted by Eli Apple’s return who will help slow down the Saints, at least to some point. On the other hand, Carolina scored only 16 points against the Chicago Bears last week, and will now face a defense that is at a similar level.
