Most NFL teams are usually considered three-point favorites in home games, all other things being equal. Tonight’s preseason contest against the Steelers is an exception to the rule. According to the latest odds, the Panthers are four-point underdogs for the last preseason game of the year.
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out why Carolina’s odds are so low against Pittsburgh. The Panthers offense has been anemic this preseason, averaging just 10 points per game. We also already know that the team’s starters like Cam Newton and Luke Kuechly will not be playing.
By comparison, the Steelers have played far better this month. They are 3-0 coming into this game. First, they won a shootout with the Buccaners 30-28, then they shut down the Chiefs and Titans, holding them to just 13 combined points in their next two victories.
Pittsburgh also has a ton of talent on offense even though they traded receiver Antonio Brown. Don’t expect to see much if any of Ben Roethlisberger, though. Joshua Dobbs and Mason Rudolph should get the most time at QB for the Steelers.
As for the Panthers, Kyle Allen and Will Grier have both disappointed this preseason. Taylor Heinicke’s played much better by comparison but he has barely been on the field.
In any case, winning and losing doesn’t matter at this point (or any point) of the preseason schedule. The best that Carolina’s fans can hope for is no serious injuries and to see some of the rookies and bubble players stand out.
