The Carolina Panthers are about to find out just how far away they are from being a serious contender in the NFL. This week, they’ll face the reigning Super Bowl champions when they visit the Kansas City Chiefs.
Having an extra couple days of rest after losing on Thursday against the Atlanta Falcons should help. They’ll need it, since this is the toughest opponent they’ll face all season. As one might expect, the odds are heavily against them. According to the latest figures at BetMGM, the Panthers opened as 12-point underdogs against the Chiefs for this Week 9 matchup.
The champs are fresh off a 35-9 thrashing of the Jets that saw Patrick Mahomes throw for over 400 yards and five touchdowns. As if their offense wasn’t loaded enough already they recenly signed Le’Veon Bell. Their defense is also far more potent than it was a couple years ago, making this a remarkably balanced heavyweight team. Kansas City ranks third in the NFL in points scored and points allowed per game.
Nobody expects Carolina to win this one. However, if the Panthers can keep it competitive as they have in every game this season it will be another positive sign of things to come under coach Matt Rhule.
Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.
[lawrence-related id=630483]
[vertical-gallery id=630445]