The Carolina Panthers have emerged as point-spread favorites for the first time since 2022, as they prepare to host the Dallas Cowboys this Sunday afternoon. Currently holding a record of 3-10, the Panthers come into this matchup after suffering a narrow 22-16 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles. Meanwhile, the Cowboys, with a record of 5-8, are looking to bounce back following a 27-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night. The last encounter between these two teams in November saw Dallas secure a convincing 33-10 victory.
As both teams head into Week 15, the Panthers are 6-7 against the spread, while the Cowboys have struggled with a 4-9 record against the spread in the current season. The game will kick off at 1 p.m. ET at Bank of America Stadium, with Carolina favored by 2.5 points and an over/under total set at 43 points.
In terms of betting analysis, a proven computer model from SportsLine has been performing exceptionally well, boasting a $7,000 winnings for $100 players on top-rated NFL picks since its inception. The model has excelled in this season, showcasing a remarkable 25-11 record for top-rated picks, and a longer-term track record of 205-139 since 2017.
On the Cowboys’ side, star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb could be pivotal in their gameplay, having caught seven passes for 93 yards recently. However, his production has been limited, partly due to quarterback Dak Prescott’s absence due to injury for most of the season. Meanwhile, running back Rico Dowdle has been making strides, recently rushing for over 100 yards in consecutive games, and stands to benefit against a Carolina defense that struggles against the run.
Conversely, the Panthers will look to running back Chuba Hubbard, especially now that rookie Jonathon Brooks has been sidelined with an ACL injury. Hubbard has had a stellar season, and his recent performance against the Eagles suggests he could thrive against a Cowboys rushing defense that ranks third worst in the league. Veteran receiver Adam Thielen has also developed a strong rapport with quarterback Bryce Young, increasing the Panthers’ offensive potency.
Overall, despite the ups and downs both teams have faced this season, they are looking to end on a positive note as they approach the season’s finale. The matchup is seen as an opportunity for both teams to highlight their strengths and potentially secure a morale-boosting victory.
For those following this game closely, it appears the element of surprise could play a role, and, with both teams having key players capable of making game-changing plays, fans can anticipate an exciting afternoon of football.
Summary: The Carolina Panthers are favored over the Dallas Cowboys for their upcoming game, marking the first time they’ve held such a position since 2022. Both teams are coming off recent losses, but players like Chuba Hubbard and CeeDee Lamb are expected to have significant impacts in the matchup. The game promises excitement and the chance for both teams to end their seasons positively despite their struggles.