Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons
Art Aronson recommends a play on Panthers -3 at betonline
Setting the scene: Carolina went to the Super Bowl last season, but has gotten out to a poor start so far in 2016/17, coming into Week 3 sitting at 1-2. Atlanta returns home after two straight road victories, most recently pulling away for the 45-32 win at New Orleans on Monday night. We think the “hungry” visitors are the correct call in this matchup.
The Panthers: It’s been a tough start to the year for Carolina. But with three straight divisional contests, starting with Atlanta, then Tampa Bay at home next week, followed by a game at New Orleans before their “bye,” we’re expecting the Panthers and to risk life and limb today. Also note that Carolina is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a road fav of three points or less and interestingly, 6-2 ATS in its last eight games played in the month of October.
The Falcons: They look primed for a letdown here after their big win over the Saints on national television. And with two tough road games on deck, including at Denver and Seattle, it’s not too hard to imagine the home side getting caught “looking ahead” to that difficult part of its schedule.
The bottom line: Also note that Atlanta is a poor 2-9 ATS in its last 11 following a divisional contest and 0-6 ATS off a win against a division rival. Consider a second look at the PANTHERS in Week 4.