3 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers in Week 2
The Carolina Panthers will upset the odds and win
As we previously mentioned, Vegas betting circles and most of the national media are favoring the Buccaneers big in this game. History is on their side as Tom Brady is 3-0 in Week 2 matchups following Week 1 losses.
However, here are two things to consider. Tom Brady is no longer coached by Bill Belichick who is the master of making game-to-game adjustments. And Tampa Bay may not be the juggernaut everyone thinks they are at this point in the season.
It is likely key weapon Chris Godwin will not suit up on Sunday and Mike Evans may play hurt. New additions Leonard Fourtnette and Rob Gronkowski are talented, but still learning the playbook. The same goes for Brady who struggled against the Saints.
On the other hand, the Carolina Panthers offense looked very smooth in Week 1 and may look a lot better, providing Teddy Bridgewater tunes up his accuracy and slight timing issues with his wide receivers.
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Offensive coordinator Joe Brady will have to get Christian McCaffrey involved in the passing game early and often to break this game open. If the Panthers score more than 30 points, Brady and company may not have enough firepower this week to match. Even if the scoring is high, the winner may be decided on who wins the turnover battle and stop the run.