Expert Picks Week 9: Sunday Afternoon
By Adam Ganeles
Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Line: Carolina -9.5 vs. Atlanta — O/U 43.5
Let’s call it like it is: the Falcons are suddenly short on talent; on both sides of the ball. Steven Jackson returned in week 8, but there doesn’t appear to be much left in the tank. The Panthers have been absolutely stuffing the run, and their secondary is young and athletic. With a simplified offensive gameplan in place, Cam Newton has gone three straight games without a turnover. He’s just playing, not getting trapped inside his own head.
Prediction: 27-6 Carolina