Panthers vs. Cardinals Odds & Picks

Panthers at Cardinals Betting Odds

• Odds: Cardinals -2
• Total: 45
• Time: 4:05 p.m. ET
• TV Channel: FOX

Odds above as of Sunday morning and via PointsBet, where Action Network users can exclusively bet every NFL spread this season at reduced juice (-105).

Expert Pick

I actually think this is a great spot to back Carolina with Cam Newton out.

After starting 0-2 — with both losses coming at home — the Panthers hit the road with extra prep/rest after last week’s Thursday night game. You should get a desperate team’s best effort on the road here.

Most importantly, Kyle Allen will get the nod at quarterback. And while the market has adjusted the line in Arizona’s favor by as many as five points at some books (although not through any key numbers), I actually think Allen starting will help Carolina’s offense.

Newton simply is not himself right now. He’s either not healthy or forgot how to accurately throw a football. In last week’s loss to Tampa Bay, more than 60% of his balls were uncatchable! 60!

And through two weeks, he’s been the most inaccurate passer — by a wide margin. And it’s not like he’s been running like he has in the past. Newton has only five rushing attempts for -2 yards this season. And we’re talking about a guy who has rushed for almost 5,000 yards over his first eight NFL seasons.

Cam has no touchdowns and one interception in two games with a Total QBR of 26.9. It’s been as ugly, as you’ve heard.

Allen can at least get the ball down the field to Carolina’s speedy receivers, who will be matched up against an Arizona defense still playing without its top two corners. And as I said before, it’s not like the Panthers will see any drop-off in the QB running department.

This is still a deeply flawed Arizona team across the board.

I’m buying low on the Panthers. And at +2.5 at some books, it’s also a great teaser piece, especially if the +3 never pops in the market — which you should hold out for if you like Carolina.

I also like the over up to 45. I think Allen will actually improve this Panthers’ offense, and we know both teams play fast. They both rank inside the top six in seconds per play in neutral situations. Maybe they go a little slower with Allen, but I think the improved passing game can make up for any drop-off there.