The Atlanta Falcons will be trying to book a spot in the playoffs with a win against the Carolina Panthers in their season finale, which will take place at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Sunday. The game is scheduled to begin at 4:25 PM. ET.
Falcons vs Panthers Odds
Point Spread and Over/Under
- Carolina Panthers +3.5
- Atlanta Falcons -3.5
- Over/Under 45
My Pick
Carolina Panthers Analysis…
The Panthers have already clinched a playoff spot, but they can still win the NFC South title with a win and a loss by the New Orleans Saints, which means they also have a lot to play for on Sunday.
Offensively, the Panthers are averaging 23.5 points per game, which is 11th in the league. However, Cam Newton has been inconsistent this year, so you don’t know which Carolina offense to expect.
Defensively, the Panthers have been very good this season, with opponents averaging 20.3 points per game, which is 11th in the NFL. However, they have given up more than 21 points in four of their last five games, so they will need to play better on defense to get the win.
The Panthers won their first meeting against the Falcons 20-17, and would love to sweep the season series. But, the Falcons are desperate for a win, and are at home, which will make this a very difficult game for the Panthers to win.
Atlanta Falcons Analysis…
The Falcons know that a win guarantees them a playoff spot, which makes this a game they can’t afford to lose. They missed out on a great opportunity to clinch a playoff spot last week when they lost to the New Orleans Saints, and will try to avoid having the same thing happen this week.
Before their loss to the Saints, the Falcons had been playing very well, winning six of their last seven games. They will need to put the loss to the Saints behind them, and focus on the Panthers.
Offensively, the Falcons didn’t get much done against New Orleans until later in the game.
Matt Ryan, who was sacked five times was forced to carry the offensive load with an ineffective running game gaining only 62 yards against the Saints defense.
If they want to defeat the Panthers, they will need a big game from their running backs.
Defensively, the Falcons did a great job against the Saints, holding them to 86 rushing yards. If they can play with the same intensity and the offense protects the ball, they should be able to get the win.
Final word…
The Falcons know their playoff lives depend on this game and will be playing in front of their fans, giving them the edge. Take Atlanta -3.5.
Play: Falcons -3.5
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