Carolina Panthers NFL Betting Odds

Last Season

The Carolina Panthers had an awesome 2008 NFL season, ending on 12-4, one of the best records in the NFC. Much of the team's success lay with the dynamic duo of running backs, DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Williams converted 273 touches into 1,515 yards and 18 scores, while Stewart contributed 836 yards and 10 touchdowns. So it was no surprise that Carolina ranked 3rd overall in the NFL rush offense last season. But while the regular season posed no problem for the Panthers, it was in the playoffs that the team ran into trouble, going down to the Arizona Cardinals 33-13.

Off Season

Given their 2008 season, the Carolina Panthers went into the off-season with their heads held high. However, if there was one area that let the team down, it was its defense. Which is why rumors that the team's superstar defensive end, Julius Peppers, was looking to move were concerning. However, he re-signed for another year (in a deal worth $16m). In the 2009 NFL Draft, Carolina selected talented defensive end, Everette Brown, who could well fill the shoes of Peppers next year. The team also signed 'adaptive' cornerback, Sherrod Martin, as well as defensive tackle, Corvey Irvin, who while unproven, has bulk and strength in his favor.

2009 Preview

The Carolina Panthers found most of their success last season on the ground, which is why the team will likely look to emulate last season. With one of the best offensives in the NFL, the team will no doubt continue to rely on top-rated wide receiver, Steve Smith, to make plays when and where he can. Quarterback, Jake Delhomme, is expected to step up this season, especially after he floundered at the end of last season. Many Panthers' fans would love to see Delhomme go, but perhaps he'll bring it this season. Defensively, the biggest question is whether Everette Brown will be able to deliver when he eventually makes it onto the field.

2009 Prediction

If last year's season is anything to go by, the Carolina Panthers should be in pretty good shape this season. That said, they will have to prepare themselves for a grueling start to the season as they go up stiff rivals early on like the Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys. For the Panthers to forge ahead in 2009, it is crucial that they start off the season in winning form. But the key to their season is whether Delhomme can keep it together in the big games.

**Our Pick This team will struggle to repeat the 2008 season and value is to be had betting against them. They may not even make the playoffs this year as Atlanta should take a power of beating in their own division.

 

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