Prediction, Lines, odds and picks |
Carolina is now 1-1 ATS on the season after dropping a 20-10 road contest to the Miami Dolphins as six-point underdogs. The Panthers started the exhibition season with a 20-10 win over the New York Giants.
Panthers head coach Ron Rivera has made the decision to start Cam Newton in his contest and he’ll likely play three quarters Thursday night. Offensive coordinator Rod Chudzinski is likely to draw up a game plan that will utilize the Heisman Trophy winner’s talents.
Rivera has clearly stated that a determination has not been made on who will be the opening week starter under center, as second-year quarterback Jimmy Clausen is still in the running to assume that role.
Cincinnati has dropped both of its preseason contests against-the-spread and has been outscored by a significant 61-10 margin in road games against the Detroit Lions and New York Jets.
“There’s a transformation we’re making and if I’m going to put an experienced group on the field, I’m going to put the defense out there first,” commented head coach Marvin Lewis about the disparity of experience between his defensive and offensive units.
The Bengals will likely be starting a rookie quarterback when the season kicks off on Sunday, Sept. 11 in Cleveland. TCU signal-caller Andy Dalton has started both exhibition contests and there’s no indication that it’s going to change.
Bettors will likely want to back the Bengals due to 2-0 ATS record at home during the preseason last year, while the Panthers will be solely focused on taking a conservative approach on offense.
