Carolina Panthers vs. Broncos early odds and prediction for Week 12

The Carolina Panthers face one more battle before their extended period of rest when they welcome the Denver Broncos in Week 12. 

Having a bye week so late in the season comes with its own complications. It’s been a grueling stretch for the Carolina Panthers up to this point, which sees the team currently sitting at 3-8 following their disappointing reverse at the Baltimore Ravens in sub-zero weather conditions.

Just what this means for the future of interim head coach Steve Wilks is unclear. According to Ellis Williams of the Charlotte Observer, there are growing calls from within the franchise to install the respected figure long-term, but the only opinion that matters when it’s all said and done is David Tepper’s – a man who hasn’t exactly proven to be a shrewd decision-maker since buying the organization from Jerry Richardson.

A huge effort is needed down the stretch to leave no doubt if this is what Carolina’s players actually want. And they have a good opportunity to head into their extended period of rest with a win at home to the Denver Broncos in Week 12.

Big things were expected from the Broncos this season following their high-profile trade for Russell Wilson. But things haven’t been a bed of roses under troubled head coach Nathaniel Hackett, who’s been criticized heavily for his lack of ability to fully adjust to the top job despite boasting a wealth of weapons at his disposal.

Denver comes into this one on the back of a horrible loss versus the Las Vegas Raiders. Regardless of this, Carolina should see this as a winnable game and one that can further boost morale during their bye.

Carolina Panthers vs. Broncos odds for Week 12

According to the latest odds from FanDuel Sportsbook, the Panthers are 2.5-point underdogs at Bank of America Stadium in Week 12.

• Carolina +2.5 points: -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
• Denver -2.5 points: -115 (bet $115 to win $100)

Carolina is currently available at +120 on the money line (bet $100 to win $120), with the Broncos narrowly favored to potentially achieve a valuable win on their travels at -142 (bet $142 to win $100).

FanDuel’s over/under for the encounter is currently set at 35.5 points. Something that is in keeping with the recent struggles of both offenses during the campaign so far.

• Over 35.5 points: -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
• Under 35.5 points: -105 (bet $105 to win $100)

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

Carolina Panthers vs. Broncos prediction for Week 12

Predicting the outcome of Carolina’s games has been a tough ask over the last few years. For every notable victory, there are two or three crippling losses and this weekend is equally difficult to project based on how these teams have fared to date.

At least on the face of things, Carolina has a decent opportunity. And it’s also worth remembering that the last time they took the field at Bank of America Stadium saw Wilks’ men completely dominate the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday Night Football.

Much will also depend on which Wilson turns up for the Broncos. Will it be the former Super Bowl winner and elite playmaker or the one who’s found life difficult coping with a new scheme in an unfamiliar setting?

Although it’s right to err on the side of caution, we’re tipping the Panthers to go into their bye week on a high with a close-fought win.