By james art The Carolina Panthers are in Denver today, trying to end a four-game skid that reversed all the positivity inspired by their win against the Las Vegas Raiders. They are heavy underdogs and have more than a few major injuries to contend with. Things aren’t looking so good on paper for the Panthers, but here’s everything you need to know.
The Panthers are 11-point underdogs today. They started out much closer before going underdogs by 7.5 points. It’s even worse now. Vegas odds have almost no faith in the Panthers today. They have some serious injuries on offense to contend with and face a stout defense in the Broncos, who are 4-3 on the year. The money line is even less good: Panthers +425, Broncos -575.
The Panthers are one of the hardest hitting teams in the NFL this week. Their starting quarterback, Andy Dalton, is dealing with a sprained thumb and is questionable. Cornerback Dane Jackson and running back Jonathon Brooks, who is in the second of his three-week return window from IR, are also questionable.
Safety Jordan Fuller, safety Nick Scott, wide receiver Adam Thielen, wide receiver Dionte Johnson, outside linebacker DJ Wonnum and safety Jamie Robinson are officially out. Jadaveon Clowney, Josey Jewell, Taylor Moton, Tommy Tremble and Sam Franklin Jr. are questionable.
It’s much healthier on the Broncos side. Defensive back PJ Locke is questionable, while offensive tackle Alex Palczewski is questionable. They only have three other injuries to report, but they come in without an assignment and will play.
Since no one believes the Panthers can win, the only thing to keep an eye on is Bryce Young. He returned as a starter in Andy Dalton’s absence. However, he has the cards stacked against him. Jonathan Brooks, Adam Thielen and Dionte Johnson are all out, and he’s facing one of the best secondaries in the league. His two best pass rushers will be the erratic Xavier Legette and Jonathan Mingo.
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