Can the Carolina Panthers curb their losing ways? The next opportunity will come in Week 5 when they visit the resurgent Detroit Lions.
Detroit is 3-1 after thumping the rival Green Bay Packers 34-20 on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Panthers are 0-4 following their 21-13 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday.
Without further ado, let’s dive into our predictions and best bets.
Panthers vs Lions Odds
NFL odds used for this Carolina vs Detroit preview were found at DraftKings Sportsbook and are current as of Tuesday, Oct. 3, at 2 p.m. ET.
- Moneyline: Lions (-440) • Panthers (+340)
- Spread: Lions -9 (-108) • Panthers +9 (-112)
- Total Points: Over 44.5 (-112) • Under 44.5 (-108)
- Implied Score: Lions 26.75, Panthers 17.75
Panthers vs Lions Predictions
Score Pick: Lions 27, Panthers 13
Better days may be ahead for Carolina, but likely not anytime this season. Bryce Young‘s indoctrination into the NFL has been difficult. The Panthers have scored just two offensive touchdowns across 12 quarters with the No. 1 pick at the controls.
Their offense ranks near the bottom of the league in several statistical categories, including yards (282.5) and points (16.75) per game.
Things won’t get any easier against Detroit. The Lions are well-rested, and on top of that, they’re expected to have their full complement of weapons for Jared Goff.
That includes Jameson Williams, who returned to practice this week after having his suspension for gambling reduced.
Based on what we’ve seen, it’s hard to imagine Carolina keeping pace with Detroit.
Panthers vs Lions Best Bets & Props
Lions -9 (-108)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 Unit
The Panthers are still winless, which won’t change in Week 5. The defense has allowed the seventh-most points (102) in the NFL and will continue to struggle against Detroit’s balanced attack.
But even more worrisome is Aidan Hutchinson and the Lions’ relentless pass rush. Young has already been sacked 11 times in three games, which doesn’t bode well for Carolina.
While this is a big spread, the Lions (3-1 ATS) certainly have what it takes to cover. I’m taking them at -9 for my NFL bet of the day.
Panthers Under 16.5 (+105)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 unit
Frank Reich is known for his offensive smarts. Yet in Young’s three starts, Carolina’s managed a total of 40 points.
Without a true No. 1 receiver – veteran Adam Thielen leads Carolina with 27 receptions – or quality protection, the Panthers will continue to struggle to produce big plays.
At plus-odds, the value here is too good to pass up.
Lions 1H -6.5 (-108)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 Unit
Dan Campbell‘s gotten his team ready to play. The Lions have led at halftime in each of their last three games, including twice by double digits.
Fresh off an extended break, this week should be no different. Look for Detroit to jump out early.
Panthers vs Lions Same Game Parlay
Panthers vs Lions SGP (+266)
DraftKings Sportsbook • WAGER: 1 Unit
- Lions -7 (-149)
- Under 47.5 (-166)
- Lions Race to 25 Points (-135)
Each of Detroit’s last two wins have been by 14 points. Even if the Lions don’t win that comfortably, they shouldn’t have much issue here. They proved from the get-go they were for real.
Carolina’s allowed at least 20 points in all four losses, and the Lions have enough offensive firepower to top 25. After all, they’re averaging 26.5 points per game.
With Carolina’s inability to consistently move the ball, I’m expecting this to stay Under 47.5 total points.
