The Carolina Panthers news regarding their over-under does not look good in 2020, but can their new-look roster surprise people?
It will come as no surprise that the Carolina Panthers news regarding their upcoming chances in 2020 appears slim. They have made a wealth of different free agent moves in a bid to go young during a rebuild. This is expected to come with its own growing pains.
The team somehow managed to secure a 5-11 record in 2019 despite losing their star quarterback Cam Newton through injury. To say their defense was suspect was something of an understatement and it remains to be seen whether their historic NFL Draft class can step up and immediately contribute.
Their strength of schedule got a lot more difficult with the overall strength expected in the NFC South. They also face the prospect of some brutal road games at the Green Bay Packers, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and Minnesota Vikings.
While the Panthers’ home schedule is set to be somewhat easier. The franchise will need to show a marked improvement on their 2-6 record at Bank of America in 2019.
New head coach Matt Rhule will get a relatively free pass in regards to the team’s record next season. He will be in his first year in the pros and has a young squad to work with.
That being said, the Panthers projected wins according to Bet MGM is 5.5 currently. The over is +100 and those betting the under can do so at -120.
It is going to be a slog for the Panthers next season. But can their new direction result in an immediate turnaround in fortunes?
Panthers News: Can Carolina beat the over-under in 2020?
It is going to be tremendously difficult for the Carolina Panthers to surprise people next season. Any success they secure during their first year under Matt Rhule is going to stand them in good stead. But it is unrealistic to expect miracles right away.
Much will depend on their home record improving as to their fortunes in 2020. The Panthers were nothing short of dismal in front of their loyal fanbase last time around and this is something that needs to change at the earliest opportunity.
They are going to lean on All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey heavily once again. But a significant responsibility also falls on the shoulders of free-agent quarterback Teddy Bridgewater as he looks to make the most of the impressive offensive weapons at his disposal.
Moving to a new 4-3 base defense is going to do their chances no harm at all. But the rookies will need to stand up and be counted from the outset if they are going to mount anything like a challenge.
The win projection of 5.5 seems fair. One would think it could go either way, and six might be the target the Panthers themselves realistically set as they look to lay the foundations for a successful future.
Carolina’s identity has changed dramatically during the offseason. Things like this take time and their recent moves are reflected in their lowly win total by the Vegas oddsmakers who rarely get it wrong.