Washington @ Arizona: Handicap Arizona -1 – 10/11
I’ve Arizona rated better on a neutral field with Sam Bradford at the helm and a healthy David Johnson returning to be the bell cow.
Throw the book out on the 2017 season given all their injuries – back in 2016, the Cards were a top 10 offence in yards-per-game and points-per-game. I’m not saying they will return to that form but there is potential here.
Washington’s offence doesn’t have any firepower – a cautious Alex Smith, no real WR1 and a panic signing of AP – I’d be very disappointed if the Cardinals can’t keep them in check.
Unfortunately, it looks like there is absolute zero chance Markus Golden will suit up on defence for them and there is a new head coach, former Carolina defensive coordinator Steve Wilks, involved in his first ever game in charge of an NFL team but nonetheless this becomes a bet for myself once the spread is 2.5 or less.
Aug 17, 2018; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera looks on during the game against the Miami Dolphins at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas @ Carolina: Handicap Carolina -2.5 – 5/6
A group of turnstiles is probably the most apt description for the Panthers offensive line these days but at least Cam can manufacture something with his play.
As for Dallas, when that offensive line isn’t humming, Dak or Zeke struggle to get any rhythm going. Zack Martin is upgraded to probable but in my opinion, they still lack the cohesiveness they had when Elliott ran riot on the league.
Similar to the previous matchup, I’ve Carolina rated as a better team on a neutral field than the Cowboys and we are getting a spread of less than a field goal.
I like the usage promised for Christian McCaffrey in the offseason and the quick drops and screen passes which complement his style so well should allow Cam Newton a fraction of time longer to push the ball downfield.
*All odds correct at time of posting
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