5 bold predictions for the Patriots against the Panthers

5 of 5

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 31: Mac Jones #10 of the New England Patriots throws a pass in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on October 31, 2021 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images) /

The Patriots will get the win in Carolina

As good as the Panthers defense has been this year, their offense has taken a nosedive. Darnold is averaging just 156 yards per game over Carolina’s last four contests. The Panthers are tied for fourth in the NFL with eight interceptions thrown offensively, and New England is tied for second in defensive interceptions.

Carolina is the more talented team, but the Patriots have been more efficient this season in terms of protecting the ball and taking advantage of opportunities. Mac Jones isn’t lighting the world on fire with his play, but he hasn’t been turning the ball over a ton, and they haven’t necessarily needed him to throw 300 yards a game.

This will be a low-scoring affair. Both defenses are playing well, and both teams are playing with below average quarterbacks. The Patriots will utilize the middle of the field rather than test the outside, and that will be the difference. The Panthers have better talent at the skill positions, but Darnold has become too reckless and inconsistent with the ball. Take the under in this game, and expect the Patriots to get to 5-4 as they stay in the AFC Wildcard hunt.

Home/New England Patriots