Panthers Open as Underdogs Against Broncos in Week 9

Carolina enters the matchup after two heavy defeats in which its offensive line struggled and its defense also had difficulty. The Panthers return home after losing at Green Bay, but face a Denver team coming off a win over the Kansas City Chiefs.

DraftKings listed the Broncos at -142 on the moneyline and the Panthers at +120. The spread was 2.5 points, with Carolina at -102 to cover and Denver at -118. The total was set at 43.5 points, with the over at -115 and the under at -105.

The odds point to a close game, with a projected score around 24-21 in Denver’s favor. A Panthers win would bring them to 4-4 and keep them atop the NFC South; a loss would leave them 3-5 and could cost them first place.

Denver’s defense presents a major test for a Carolina offense that has struggled against strong defenses in recent weeks. The Broncos’ offense, meanwhile, has faced criticism, including for quarterback Bo Nix’s play. Carolina’s defense could have an opportunity to affect the game, particularly after the firing of coordinator Ejiro Evero, but the Panthers remain underdogs.