Panthers at Bears: Expert picks for Week 7

CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 2: A general view of Soldier Field during the game between the Chicago Bears and the Carolina Panthers on October 2, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 2: A general view of Soldier Field during the game between the Chicago Bears and the Carolina Panthers on October 2, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /
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National media picks for the Carolina Panthers and Chicago Bears, Week 7 matchup…

The Carolina Panthers kicked off last week on Thursday night with a home loss to the Eagles but look to get back on track in Chicago. Currently the Panthers (4-2) have won every road game but are just 1-2 at home.

Chicago (2-4) is coming off an overtime win, rookie quarterback Mitch Trubisky’s first of his career, but only their second of the season. The Bears have already suffered losses to the Panthers divisional rivals Atlanta and Tampa Bay meaning Carolina needs a win. Unfortunately, the Panthers have never won a regular season game inside Soldier Field.

Following is a look at some predictions for the upcoming game in Chicago.

CBS Sports – Carolina Panthers

Of the seven individuals making a selection, all but two favor Carolina in another road victory. A final spot left for visitors of the site to vote also gives an overwhelming majority to the visiting Panthers. In the public opinion poll Carolina is currently favored by 86-percent of those who voted.

ESPN – Carolina Panthers

Ten analysts from ESPN have the same prediction as eight believe the Panthers improve to 5-2 on the year. If correct, Carolina would move within one game of their win total from a year ago with over half a season of football remaining.

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FOX Sports – Carolina Panthers

After 501 simulations in the Fox Sports computer, it was determined the Panthers have a 73.5-percent chance at victory on Sunday. This is the third highest projection of victory for any game taking place this weekend behind Seattle (82.3) and Dallas (73.9).

NFL.com – Carolina Panthers

Elliot Harrison expects the Panthers to win a close contest on the road in Chicago. His theory reflects the feelings of coach Ron Rivera that Carolina needs to limit Jordan Howard running the football.

Sports Illustrated – Carolina Panthers

Good news – six experts picked here against the spread and four favor Carolina. Bad news – both Chicago selections came from individuals ranked first and second in the group.

Next: NFL Power Rankings - Week 7

For the first time all season Carolina is a unanimous favorite entering Sunday’s game with Chicago. A good but also hesitant sign as the Panthers were favored by a majority of the outlets reviewed here last week against Philadelphia.