Carolina Panthers Betting Odds

Team Overview

The Carolina Panthers are entering the 2024/2025 NFL season with a focus on improvement and rebuilding after a challenging 2-15 record last year. Under the new leadership of head coach Dave Canales, the Panthers are aiming to develop their young talent and address key weaknesses, particularly on offense. With quarterback Bryce Young at the helm, the team is looking to make strides in the NFC South, leveraging a mix of new acquisitions and returning players to foster growth and competitiveness.

Offensive Line Analysis

The Panthers’ offensive line was a significant area of concern last season, ranking 31st in pass-blocking grade. This offseason, the team has made efforts to bolster the line, most notably by acquiring guard Robert Hunt, who posted the seventh-best overall grade among guards and allowed just five pressures in 2023[7]. His presence is expected to provide much-needed stability and protection for Bryce Young, who was one of the most sacked quarterbacks last season. The line also includes returning players like Ikem Ekwonu and rookie additions, aiming to create a more cohesive unit. Improving the offensive line is crucial for the Panthers to enhance their passing game and support their running backs, Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders.

Defensive Line Analysis

Defensively, the Panthers’ line is anchored by standout player Derrick Brown, who continues to be a force in the interior with his strong run defense and ability to generate pressures. However, the unit overall ranked low, and the team has added veteran A’Shawn Robinson to provide depth and experience. The defensive line’s ability to improve its pass rush and maintain solid run defense will be vital in a division with competitive offenses. The Panthers’ defense, which ranked fourth in total yards allowed per game last season, aims to build on its strengths while addressing the lack of takeaways.

Here is a summary of the Carolina Panthers’ 2024 Season so far:

Week 18 – Vs Atlanta Falcons

Final Score: Carolina Panthers 44, Atlanta Falcons 38 (OT)

• Key Players:
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Threw for 251 yards and 3 touchdowns, while also rushing for 24 yards and 2 touchdowns.
  • Miles Sanders (Panthers RB): Rushed for 98 yards on 22 carries, including the game-winning 1-yard touchdown in overtime.
  • DJ Chark Jr. (Panthers WR): Hauled in 7 receptions for 112 yards and 1 touchdown.
  • Brian Burns (Panthers DE): Recorded 2 sacks and 3 quarterback hits, disrupting the Falcons’ passing game.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Panthers showed resilience, matching the Falcons’ high-powered offense throughout the game.
  • Bryce Young’s dual-threat capabilities kept the Atlanta defense off-balance.
  • Carolina’s defense made crucial stops in the fourth quarter to force overtime.
  • A well-executed 70-yard drive in overtime, culminating in Sanders’ touchdown, secured the victory.
• Game Statistics:
  • Total yards: Panthers 425, Falcons 537
  • Passing yards: Panthers 270, Falcons 310
  • Rushing yards: Panthers 155, Falcons 227
  • Third-down efficiency: Panthers 7/12 (58.3%), Falcons 9/14 (64.3%)
  • Time of possession: Panthers 34:05, Falcons 32:41
• Context:
  • This win ends the Panthers’ season on a positive note, finishing with a 5-12 record.
  • The victory showcases the potential of Bryce Young and the young core of the team.
  • While missing the playoffs, the Panthers demonstrated improvement and competitiveness in the latter part of the season.
  • Bryce Young pulls a Steph Curry

• Reaction:
  • The overtime victory provides optimism for Panthers fans heading into the offseason.
  • Bryce Young’s performance reinforces the belief that he can be the franchise quarterback Carolina has been seeking.
  • The team’s ability to outlast a playoff-contending Falcons squad suggests promise for the 2025 season under head coach Frank Reich.

Week 17 – Vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Final Score: Carolina Panthers 14, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 48

• Key Players:
  • Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers QB): Completed 24 passes for 4 touchdowns, including a crucial score to Payton Durham.
  • Rachaad White (Buccaneers RB): Continued his strong season, moving closer to the 1,000-yard receiving mark.
  • Mike Evans (Buccaneers WR): Made significant contributions to the passing game, helping Tampa Bay’s offensive dominance.
  • Calijah Kancey (Buccaneers DL): Provided crucial defensive pressure, including a sack on Panthers QB Bryce Young.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Buccaneers’ offense was explosive, amassing 552 yards of total offense.
  • Tampa Bay’s defense and special teams contributed significantly, including a blocked punt returned for a touchdown by J.J. Russell.
  • The Panthers struggled to generate consistent offense, with Young facing constant pressure from the Buccaneers’ defense.
• Game Statistics:
  • Passing yards: Panthers 227, Buccaneers over 227)
  • Third-down efficiency: Not provided
  • Time of possession: Panthers 26:08, Buccaneers 33:52
• Context:
  • This victory improves the Buccaneers’ record, keeping them in strong contention for the NFC South title.
  • The win showcases Tampa Bay’s offensive firepower and defensive strength heading into the final week of the regular season.
  • The loss further diminishes the Panthers’ already slim playoff hopes and raises questions about their rebuilding process.
• Reaction:
  • The Buccaneers’ dominant performance impressed fans and analysts, highlighting their potential as a playoff contender.
  • Tampa Bay’s balanced attack, with contributions from both offense and defense, received praise.
  • The Panthers’ struggles, particularly on offense, led to increased scrutiny of their young quarterback and coaching staff.

Week 16 – Vs Arizona Cardinals

Final Score: Carolina Panthers 36, Arizona Cardinals 30 (OT)

• Key Players:
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Completed 17 of 26 passes for 158 yards and 2 touchdowns, adding 68 rushing yards and a touchdown run.
  • Chuba Hubbard (Panthers RB): Rushed for 152 yards and 2 touchdowns on 25 carries, including the game-winning 21-yard touchdown run in overtime.
  • Adam Thielen (Panthers WR): Recorded 5 receptions for 76 yards and a touchdown.
  • Brian Burns (Panthers DE): Registered 2 sacks and 3 quarterback hits, applying consistent pressure throughout the game.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Panthers started strong, building an early 20-3 lead in the first half.
  • Arizona mounted a comeback, tying the game at 30-30 with a 58-yard field goal as time expired in regulation.
  • Carolina’s defense made crucial stops in overtime, setting up Hubbard’s game-winning touchdown run.
  • Both teams showcased explosive offensive plays, but also struggled with consistency at times.
• Game Statistics:
  • Passing yards: Panthers 158, Cardinals 202
  • Rushing yards: Panthers 220, Cardinals 180
  • Third-down efficiency: Panthers 6-14, Cardinals 5-13
  • Time of possession: Panthers 33:45, Cardinals 31:15
• Context:
  • This victory improves the Panthers’ record to 4-11, providing a morale boost in a challenging season.
  • The win showcased the potential of rookie quarterback Bryce Young and the effectiveness of the Panthers’ ground game.
  • The loss dropped the Cardinals to 7-8, severely damaging their playoff hopes in a competitive NFC West.
• Reaction:
  • Bryce Young’s performance, particularly his rushing ability, drew praise from analysts and fans.
  • The Panthers’ resilience in overcoming Arizona’s comeback attempt was highlighted as a positive sign for the team’s future.
  • Questions were raised about the Cardinals’ defensive struggles, especially their inability to contain Carolina’s running game.
  • Despite the loss, Kyler Murray’s efforts in leading the Cardinals’ comeback were commended.

Week 15 – Vs Dallas Cowboys

Final Score: Carolina Panthers 14, Dallas Cowboys 30

• Key Players:
  • Cooper Rush (Cowboys QB): Completed 18 of 29 passes for 214 yards, with 3 touchdowns and no interceptions.
  • Rico Dowdle (Cowboys RB): Rushed for 149 yards on 25 carries, averaging 6.0 yards per attempt.
  • CeeDee Lamb (Cowboys WR): Caught 9 passes for 116 yards and 1 touchdown.
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Completed 19 of 28 passes for 219 yards, with 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Cowboys’ defense dominated, sacking Bryce Young six times and forcing four turnovers.
  • Dallas’ balanced offensive attack kept Carolina’s defense off-balance, with strong performances in both passing and rushing.
  • The Panthers struggled to generate consistent offense, with their lone bright spot being an 83-yard touchdown pass from Young to Jalen Coker.
• Game Statistics:
  • Passing yards: Cowboys 199, Panthers 175
  • Rushing yards: Cowboys 211, Panthers 60
  • Third-down efficiency: Cowboys 6-12, Panthers 3-11
  • Time of possession: Cowboys 33:46, Panthers 26:14
• Context:
  • This victory improves the Cowboys’ record to 6-8, keeping their slim playoff hopes alive in the NFC.
  • The loss drops the Panthers to 3-11, further cementing their position at the bottom of the NFC South.
• Reaction:
  • The Cowboys’ offensive performance, particularly Rush’s career-high 3 touchdowns, showcased their potential when firing on all cylinders.
  • Carolina’s defense struggled to contain Dallas’ rushing attack, with Dowdle becoming the first undrafted running back to surpass 100 yards rushing in three straight games since Arian Foster.
  • Despite the loss, the Panthers saw a glimmer of hope in Young’s 83-yard touchdown pass to Coker, the longest of his career.

Week 14 – Vs Philadelphia Eagles

Final Score : Philadelphia Eagles 22, Carolina Panthers 16

• Key Players:
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Completed 20 of 36 passes for 195 yards, with no touchdowns and no interceptions.
  • Chuba Hubbard (Panthers RB): Rushed for 104 yards on 16 carries, averaging 6.5 yards per attempt.
  • Adam Thielen (Panthers WR): Caught 5 passes for 75 yards, earning a high grade of 88.5.
  • Josey Jewell (Panthers LB): Led the team with 10 total tackles, including 2 for loss, and 2 quarterback hits.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Panthers’ offense showed improvement but struggled to find the end zone, settling for field goals.
  • Carolina’s defense put up a strong fight against the Eagles’ potent offense, particularly in pressuring Jalen Hurts.
  • The Panthers’ run defense struggled, allowing the Eagles to gain 211 yards on the ground.
• Game Statistics:
  • Passing yards: Panthers 195, Eagles 318
  • Rushing yards: Panthers 158, Eagles 211
  • Third-down efficiency: Panthers 7-13, Eagles 8-12
  • Time of possession: Panthers 31:35, Eagles 28:25
• Context:
  • This loss drops the Panthers to 2-11, continuing their challenging season but showing signs of improvement.
  • The game highlighted ongoing development for rookie quarterback Bryce Young, who showed promise despite the loss.
• Reaction:
  • The Panthers’ coaching staff will be encouraged by Young’s progress and the team’s ability to compete against a top NFC contender.
  • Carolina’s defense performed admirably against a strong Eagles offense, particularly in the passing game.
  • The Panthers will need to address their run defense issues as they continue to build for the future in the coming weeks.

Week 13 – Vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Final Score : Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23, Carolina Panthers 26

• Key Players:
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Completed 26 of 46 passes for 298 yards, with 1 touchdown and no interceptions. Also scored a rushing touchdown.
  • Adam Thielen (Panthers WR): Caught 8 passes for 99 yards and a touchdown, including a spectacular one-handed catch in overtime.
  • Bucky Irving (Buccaneers RB): Rushed for a career-high 152 yards on 24 carries, scoring 1 touchdown.
  • Anthony Nelson (Buccaneers DL): Forced a crucial fumble in overtime, leading to the Buccaneers’ game-winning drive.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Panthers’ passing game showed improvement, with Young having his best game of the season.
  • Carolina’s defense struggled to contain Tampa Bay’s rushing attack, allowing 236 yards on the ground.
  • Special teams issues plagued the Panthers, with kicker Eddy Piñeiro missing two field goals in the first half.
• Game Statistics:
  • Passing yards: Panthers 298, Buccaneers
  • Rushing yards: Panthers 78, Buccaneers 236
  • Third-down efficiency: Panthers (not provided), Buccaneers 38%
  • Time of possession: Not provided in the search results
• Context:
  • This loss further diminishes the Panthers’ already slim playoff chances in the NFC South.
  • The game highlighted ongoing defensive struggles for Carolina, particularly against the run.
• Reaction:
  • The Panthers’ coaching staff will be encouraged by Young’s performance but must address the team’s run defense and special teams issues.
  • Carolina showed resilience in forcing overtime but will need to work on closing out games and avoiding costly turnovers in crucial moments.
  • Despite the loss, the Panthers can build on Young’s progress as they look to finish the season strong and develop for the future.

Week 12 – Vs Kansas City Chiefs

Final Score : Kansas City Chiefs 30, Carolina Panthers 27

• Key Players:
  • Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs QB): Completed 27 of 37 passes for 269 yards and 3 touchdowns, with no interceptions. Also rushed for 62 yards on 5 scrambles.
  • Noah Gray (Chiefs TE): Caught 2 touchdown passes from Mahomes.
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Passed for a season-high 262 yards, completing 21 of 35 attempts with 1 touchdown.
  • David Moore (Panthers WR): Recorded 6 receptions for 80 yards and a touchdown.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Chiefs started strong, scoring on each of their first five drives, but the Panthers kept the game close throughout.
  • Carolina’s defense applied pressure, recording a season-best 5 sacks against Mahomes.
  • The game came down to the wire, with the Panthers tying the score late in the fourth quarter.
  • Mahomes’ 32-yard scramble in the final minutes set up the game-winning field goal.
• Game Statistics:
  • Total net yards: Chiefs 391, Panthers 334
  • Passing yards: Chiefs 226, Panthers 249
  • Rushing yards: Chiefs 165, Panthers 85
  • Third-down efficiency: Chiefs 8-13, Panthers 5-13
  • Time of possession: Chiefs 32:16, Panthers 27:44
• Context:
  • This victory improved the Chiefs’ record to 10-1, marking their 10th consecutive season with at least 10 wins.
  • The Panthers, despite their 3-8 record, showed significant improvement and nearly upset the defending Super Bowl champions.
• Reaction:
  • The Chiefs demonstrated their ability to win close games, with stand-in kicker Spencer Shrader securing the victory as time expired.
  • Carolina’s performance, particularly that of quarterback Bryce Young, provides hope for the team’s future despite the loss.

Week 10 – Vs. New York Giants

Final Score: Carolina Panthers 20, New York Giants 17

• Key Players:
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Showed improvement in his second straight start, recording a 79.1 overall grade and effectively managing the game.
  • Robert Hunt (Panthers G): Delivered a standout performance with a 91.0 grade, including an 88.3 run-blocking grade and zero pressures allowed on 29 pass-blocking snaps.
  • Daniel Jones (Giants QB): Led a crucial drive late in the fourth quarter, resulting in a game-tying field goal to force overtime.
  • Andru Phillips (Giants CB): Impressed with an 88.2 grade, showcasing strong defensive play throughout the game.
• Game Dynamics:
  • In overtime, the Giants won the coin toss but fumbled on their first play from scrimmage. Tyrone Tracy Jr.’s fumble was recovered by the Panthers’ Josey Jewell at the Giants’ 23-yard line.
  • The Panthers capitalized on this turnover, with Eddy Pineiro kicking a game-winning 36-yard field goal in overtime.
  • Both teams were relatively even in EPA per play and third-down conversion rates, but the Giants’ three turnovers compared to the Panthers’ one proved to be a crucial difference.
• Game Statistics:
  • Total points: Panthers 20, Giants 17
  • Total offensive plays: Panthers 58, Giants 73
  • Total net yards: Panthers 311, Giants 338
  • Third-down efficiency: Panthers 40%, Giants 47%
  • Turnovers: Panthers 1, Giants 3
• Context:
  • This game was played in Munich, Germany, was crucial for both teams’ seasons. The Panthers’ victory represents a significant turnaround, giving them back-to-back wins and potentially shifting momentum in their favor. For the Giants, this loss is a setback in their efforts to climb the standings in a competitive NFC East.
• Reaction:
  • The Panthers’ ability to secure a win despite being outgained in total yards demonstrates their resilience and improved play under Bryce Young’s leadership.
  • The Giants, while disappointed with the loss, showed fight in forcing overtime but were ultimately undone by turnovers.
  • Both teams will have a bye week. The Panthers will then host the Kansas City Chiefs on November 24

Week 9 – Vs. New Orlean Saints

Final Score: Carolina Panthers 23, New Orleans Saints 22

• Key Players
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Completed 16 of 27 passes for 176 yards, one touchdown, and three big-time throws, earning a career-high 88.5 PFF passing grade.
  • Chuba Hubbard (Panthers RB): Rushed for 72 yards and scored two touchdowns, including the game-winner.
  • Dane Jackson (Panthers CB): Allowed only three catches for 11 yards on four targets and added four stops, earning the highest PFF grade of 89.4.
  • Ja’Tavion Sanders (Panthers TE): Led the team with four receptions for 87 yards.
• Game Dynamics
  • The Panthers showed resilience in a closely contested game, mounting a crucial late-game drive. Bryce Young led the offense effectively, while the defense made key stops, particularly in the final minutes. The team capitalized on the Saints’ mistakes, including 10 penalties for 109 yards against New Orleans.
• Game Statistics
  • Final score: Panthers 23, Saints 22
  • Total offensive plays: Panthers 51, Saints 74
  • Total net yards: Panthers 267, Saints 417
  • Third-down efficiency: Panthers 40%, Saints 33%
  • Red-zone efficiency: Panthers 100% (3/3), Saints 50% (2/4)
• Context
  • This victory snapped a five-game losing streak for the Panthers, improving their record to 2-7. It marked only their second win of the season and provided a much-needed boost for the team. The win also had significant consequences for their division rivals, as the Saints fired head coach Dennis Allen the following day.
• Reaction
  • Head coach Dave Canales expressed empathy for Dennis Allen’s firing, stating, “My heart goes out to Dennis. I’ve got friends on that staff.” However, Canales remained non-committal about Bryce Young’s starting status for the upcoming Week 10 game against the New York Giants in Munich, Germany. The win has given the Panthers a slight edge in the NFC South race, though both teams still hold 2-7 records. The team now faces the challenge of building on this victory as they prepare for their international game.

Week 8 – Vs. Denver Broncos

Final score: Carolina Panthers 14, Denver Broncos 28

• Key Players
  • Bo Nix (Broncos QB): Completed 18 of 28 passes for 207 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing continued growth.
  • Nate Adkins (Broncos TE): Caught his first career touchdown, a 3-yard pass from Nix1.
  • Adam Trautman (Broncos TE): Scored a 19-yard touchdown, giving Denver its first lead1.
  • Bryce Young (Panthers QB): Threw for 224 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions on 24-of-37 passing.
• Game Dynamics
  • The Broncos dominated after a slow start, scoring on four of their first six possessions. Denver’s defense applied consistent pressure, sacking Young twice and forcing turnovers. The Panthers struggled to maintain offensive momentum, especially in the second half.
• Game Statistics
  • Broncos’ offensive output: 207 passing yards, multiple rushing touchdowns
  • Panthers’ passing: 224 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs
  • Panthers’ rushing: Limited to 69 yards
  • Third-down efficiency: Panthers 5-for-14 (36%), Fourth-down: 1-for-41
• Challenges
  • The Panthers faced significant offensive challenges, struggling to convert on third and fourth downs. Denver’s defense limited Carolina’s rushing attack and pressured Young consistently.
• Context
  • This victory improved the Broncos’ record to 5-3, maintaining their second-place standing in the AFC West. It marks Denver’s best start since 2016, their last winning season. For Carolina, it was another setback in a challenging season.
• Reaction
  • Broncos fans are celebrating the team’s fifth win in six games, with particular excitement around Bo Nix’s continued development. The emergence of the tight ends in the passing game on National Tight End Day was a welcome surprise. Panthers supporters are likely concerned about the ongoing struggles of their young quarterback and the team’s overall performance

Week 7 – Vs. Washington Commanders

Final score: Carolina Panthers 7, Washington Commanders 40

• Key Players
  • Marcus Mariota (Commanders QB): Stepped in for injured Jayden Daniels, completing 18 of 23 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns.
  • Andy Dalton (Panthers QB): Struggled significantly, throwing for only 93 yards with two interceptions before being replaced.
  • Chuba Hubbard (Panthers RB): Scored the Panthers’ only touchdown, rushing for 52 yards on 17 carries.
  • Ja’Tavion Sanders (Panthers TE): Recorded a career-high 61 receiving yards on six receptions.
• Game Dynamics
  • The Commanders took control early and never looked back. Their defense set the tone with an interception return for a touchdown by Dante Fowler Jr. on the first drive. Washington’s offense was efficient, scoring on seven of their nine drives.
• Game Statistics
  • Total Yards: Commanders 421, Panthers 180
  • Passing Yards: Commanders 207, Panthers 85
  • Rushing Yards: Commanders 214, Panthers 95
  • Third Down Efficiency: Commanders 60%, Panthers 30%
• Challenges
  • The Panthers faced significant offensive struggles, with their wide receivers combining for only four catches and 30 yards. The Commanders lost starting quarterback Jayden Daniels to a rib injury, but Marcus Mariota filled in admirably.
• Context
  • This loss further cements the Panthers’ position as one of the weakest teams in the NFL, while the Commanders continue to establish themselves as legitimate contenders in the NFC East.
• Reaction
  • The Panthers’ poor performance has raised questions about their quarterback situation and overall roster construction. For the Commanders, there’s optimism about their playoff chances, tempered with concern over Daniels’ injury status.

Week 6 – Vs. Atlanta Falcons

Final score: Carolina Panthers 20, Atlanta Falcons 38

• Key Players:
  • Chuba Hubbard (Panthers RB): Provided a spark in the running game, breaking for some significant gains
  • Andy Dalton (Panthers QB): Started in place of Bryce Young, struggled against the Falcons’ defense
  • Adam Thielen (Panthers WR): Made several receptions as a reliable target for Dalton
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Panthers’ offense struggled to maintain consistency throughout the game
  • Carolina’s defense had difficulty containing the Falcons’ balanced offensive attack
  • The Panthers showed flashes of potential but were ultimately outpaced by Atlanta’s tempo and efficiency
• Key Moments:
  • Chuba Hubbard broke free for a significant run, giving the Panthers a momentary boost
  • The Panthers managed to score early, but struggled to keep pace as the Falcons pulled away
  • A late interception thrown by Dalton effectively ended Carolina’s comeback hopes
• Overall Performance:
  • The Panthers’ offense showed some improvement with Dalton at quarterback but still faced challenges
  • Carolina’s defense struggled to contain Atlanta’s rushing attack, particularly Bijan Robinson
  • This loss dropped the Panthers to a 1-5 record, further complicating their playoff aspirations
  • The game highlighted ongoing issues for Carolina, particularly in pass protection and defensive consistency

Week 5 – Vs. Chicago Bears

Final score: Carolina Panthers 10, Chicago Bears 36

• Key Players:
  • Caleb Williams (Bears QB):  Continued to show improvement, leading the offense effectively
  • Andy Dalton (Panthers QB): Replaced Bryce Young as starter but struggled against Bears defense
  • Chuba Hubbard (Panthers RB): Scored a 38-yard rushing touchdown
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Bears dominated throughout, scoring 30 unanswered points after an early Panthers touchdown
  • Chicago’s defense continued its strong performance, holding opponents to 21 or fewer points for the 10th consecutive game
  • The Bears’ ground game was effective, led by Swift and Johnson
  • Carolina’s offense showed some improvement with Dalton but still faced challenges
• Key Moments:
  • A fight broke out after Johnson’s touchdown, resulting in ejections for Panthers CB Jaycee Horn and Bears RG Matt Pryor

• • Tremaine Edmunds forced a fumble, leading to Johnson’s second touchdown
  • Byard’s interception in the third quarter further solidified the Bears’ control
• Overall Performance:
  • The Bears showcased a balanced attack with an improved ground game and Caleb Williams’ continued development
  • Chicago’s defense remained dominant, creating turnovers and limiting Carolina’s scoring opportunities
  • The Panthers struggled on both sides of the ball, only managing to score in the first and fourth quarters
  • This victory improved the Bears’ record to 3-2, while the Panthers fell to 1-4 for the season

Week 4 – vs. Cincinnati Bengals

Final Score: Cincinnati Bengals 34, Carolina Panthers 24.

• Key Players:
  • Andy Dalton completed 25 of 40 passes for 220 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
  • Chuba Hubbard led the Panthers’ rushing attack with 18 carries for 104 yards and one touchdown, averaging 5.78 yards per carry.
  • Diontae Johnson was the leading receiver with seven catches for 83 yards and one touchdown.

• Game Dynamics:
  • The Panthers played a competitive game, keeping pace with the Bengals in total yards (375 vs. 373) and rushing yards (155 vs. 141). Despite their balanced offense and strong showing in both the run and pass game, they struggled to capitalize in key moments, ultimately falling short in a high-scoring contest.
• Key Moments:
  • Xavier Woods made a crucial interception and returned it for 33 yards, but the Panthers were unable to fully capitalize on turnovers.
  • Diontae Johnson caught one of the two Panthers’ passing touchdowns, helping keep the game close until the fourth quarter.

• Overall Performance:
  • The Panthers’ offense showed promise, with Chuba Hubbard leading the ground game and Andy Dalton distributing the ball to a variety of receivers. Despite putting up 375 total yards and dominating time of possession (31:02), the Panthers were unable to stop the Bengals when it mattered most. Both teams played clean games, with no fumbles lost and minimal sacks allowed, but the Bengals’ offense proved too much in the end, handing Carolina their third loss of the season.

Week 3 – vs. Las Vegas Raiders

Final Score: Carolina Panthers 36, Las Vegas Raiders 22.

• Key Players:
  • Andy Dalton had an outstanding game, completing 26 of 37 passes for 319 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions.
  • Chuba Hubbard led the ground attack with 21 carries for 114 yards, averaging 5.43 yards per carry.
  • Diontae Johnson was the top receiver with eight catches for 122 yards and one touchdown.

• Game Dynamics:
  • The Panthers dominated in both the running and passing games, outgaining the Raiders with 437 total yards compared to 331. The offense was efficient, spreading the ball to multiple receivers while controlling the clock with over 36 minutes of possession. Carolina’s defense also stepped up, limiting the Raiders to just 55 rushing yards and forcing a key interception.

• Key Moments:
  • Eddy Pineiro was perfect in the kicking game, hitting all three field goal attempts, including a long of 43 yards, and adding three extra points.
  • Mike Jackson recorded an interception, helping the Panthers maintain their lead in the second half.

• Overall Performance:
  • The Panthers executed a balanced offensive game plan, with Andy Dalton distributing the ball effectively and Chuba Hubbard providing a strong running presence. The defense kept the Raiders’ offense in check, forcing turnovers and limiting big plays. Carolina also controlled the clock and converted key third downs, which allowed them to secure their first win of the season, improving to 1-2.

Week 2 – vs. Los Angeles Chargers

• Final Score: Los Angeles Chargers 26, Carolina Panthers 3
• Key Players:
  • Chuba Hubbard rushed for 64 yards on just 10 attempts.
  • Cornerback Jaycee Horn recorded his first interception of the season during the first quarter.
  • Linebacker Shaq Thompson amassed 14 tackles in a standout performance for the Panthers.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Chargers offense dominated the game, amassing 219 rushing yards and controlling the time of possession throughout.
• Game Statistics:
  • The Panthers rushed 90 yards at 5.0 yards per attempt
  • The Panthers averaged 2.5 yards per pass attempt
• Challenges:
  • Pro Bowl defensive lineman Derrick Brown is now out for the season due to a knee injury sustained during the game.
  • Bryce Young’s performance has drastically declined from his college dominance. In his latest game, he threw for a career-low 84 yards, displaying diminished confidence and accuracy
• Context:
  • The Panthers have improved their offensive line after their loss in week 1
• Reactions:
  • Confidence among the fanbase has significantly diminished, with many supporters now calling for backup Andy Dalton to take over for Young.

Week 1 – vs. New Orleans Saints

• Final Score: New Orleans Saints 47, Carolina Panthers 10.
• Key Players:
  • Derek Carr led the Saints with 200 passing yards and three touchdowns, completing 19 of 23 passes.
  • Alvin Kamara contributed significantly with 83 rushing yards and a touchdown, along with 27 receiving yards.
  • Rashid Shaheed had 73 receiving yards and a touchdown.
  • Blake Grupe, the Saints’ kicker, made field goals from 57, 44, 52, and 39 yards.
• Game Dynamics:
  • The Panthers struggled offensively, converting only 10% of third-down attempts and 13% of fourth-down attempts.
  • Bryce Young, the Panthers’ quarterback, completed 13 of 30 passes for 161 yards and two interceptions.
  • The Panthers’ defense allowed 379 total yards and failed to contain the Saints’ offense.
• Key Moments:
  • The game was effectively over early, as the Saints scored a 59-yard touchdown on their first possession and intercepted Bryce Young on his first pass.
  • A fumble by Jonathan Mingo further sealed the Panthers’ fate, leading to another Saints score.
• Next Game:
  • The Panthers will host the Los Angeles Chargers in their next matchup.

Odds to Win Division and Super Bowl

– Odds to Win NFC South: +1100, reflecting their underdog status in the division.

– Odds to Win Super Bowl: +25000, indicating a 0.4% chance, placing them among the long shots for the championship[6].

Predictions

– Overall Record: The Panthers are projected to finish with a 4-13 record, reflecting modest improvement as they rebuild under new leadership.

– Playoff Chances: With odds of +750 to make the playoffs, the Panthers face a challenging path to postseason contention, requiring significant progress and consistency.

– Super Bowl Chances: Winning the Super Bowl is unlikely this season, given their long odds and the need for substantial growth across the roster.

In summary, the Carolina Panthers are entering the 2024/2025 season with a focus on development and addressing key areas of weakness. The team’s success will largely depend on the performance of Bryce Young and the effectiveness of their revamped offensive line. While immediate playoff contention may be challenging, the Panthers are laying the groundwork for future success as they navigate a transitional period in their franchise history.