Tampa Bay Buccaneers @ Carolina Panthers: Spread
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This is a crucial divisional matchup featuring two NFC South opponents, buccaneers vs panthers, who have an identical 9-3 record. The winner of this game will claim first place in the division. The last time these teams met the Bucs dominated the Panthers by a score of 27-3. This game will definitely be one of the most important Monday night football games this year. |
The Panthers are scoring an average of 23.8 points per game, ranking 14th in the NFL. They have been much more productive offensively as of late, averaging 31.3 points in their last 3 contests. Jake Delhomme and Steve Smith have been clicking recently connecting for 273 yards in Carolina’s last two contests. However, the Panthers main advantage against the Bucs may be their ground attack. The Bucs have allowed at least 150 rushing yards to the opposition twice this season and at least 100 rushing yards 7 times. Panther running backs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart have already combined for 1541 yards and 17 rushing touchdowns. Tampa’s top defensive tackle Jovan Hay is doubtful. This also gives reason to believe that Carolina, who has the sixth best rushing attack in the league, will be able to run all over Tampa.
Homefield advantage will play a critical role in this one. The Panthers are 6-0 at home and 5-1 against the spread. Carolina has only allowed an average of 13 points per game to the opposition when playing at home this season. The Bucs are averaging only 17.25 points per game on the road against opponents who do not have losing records.
The Panthers have the revenge factor working for them in this one. They were embarrassed the last time they played in Tampa earlier this season. The bottom line is that Carolina is a very strong home team and Tampa Bay is a mediocre road team at best. As a result, they are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 road contests versus teams with winning records. This one will be a tight defensive battle but the Panthers will be the better team and cover the spread.
Prediction: Carolina 23 Tampa Bay 17
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