The Panthers started their 2019 season off with a home loss against the Rams, but they have a chance to rebound quick on a short week. On Thursday night they will host their NFC South rivals, the Buccaneers.
Tampa Bay has undergone a lot of changes this offseason, most notably upgrading at head coach from Dirk Koetter to Bruce Arians. However, the Bucs are still considered big underdogs going into Week 2.
According to the odds at Bet MGM, Carolina opened as a 6.5-point favorite for this week’s matchup.
The Bucs opened their season on the road against the 49ers and many analysts were expecting a strong debut for their new-look offense. However, Jameis Winston picked up right where the left off in 2018, throwing three interceptions and managing just 194 passing yards. San Francisco went on to win 31-17.
The Panthers have won their last two home meetings against Tampa and nine of 12 overall.
