Atlanta Falcons (6-7) vs. Carolina Panthers (1-12)
Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers December 17, 2023 – In an intriguing NFL Week 15 matchup, the Atlanta Falcons, standing at 6-7, travel to face the Carolina Panthers, who have struggled this season with a 1-12 record. This game, attracting considerable attention for NFL winning picks, is scheduled for Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET at Bank of America Stadium and will be broadcasted on FOX. The Falcons aim to improve their record, while the Panthers look to salvage some pride in their challenging season.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers December 17, 2023Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Bank of America Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Desmond Ridder QB vs. Bryce Young QB
Desmond Ridder has shown flashes of promise in his rookie campaign, but he has also struggled with consistency and decision-making at times. He has 2376 passing yards with just 9 touchdowns and 9 interceptions while taking 31 sacks. Ridder will need to avoid costly turnovers against a opportunistic Carolina defense. His supporting cast led by playmakers like Drake London must step up.
Bryce Young has endured a difficult rookie season as well on a talent-deprived Panthers offense, posting a 70.9 passer rating with 9 touchdowns and 9 picks. He has dealt with pressure often, taking 48 sacks already as Carolina has trailed early and abandoned the run game frequently. The Panthers offense ranks at the bottom of the league in most categories. Young must raise his game for Carolina to have a chance.
Examining the Atlanta Falcons Offensive Weapons
Despite Ridder’s up and down play, the Falcons offense has shown the ability to put points on the board, ranking 12th in scoring at 23 points per game. A key reason is their rushing attack led by rookie standout Bijan Robinson. The dynamic Robinson has 790 rushing yards on just 169 attempts (4.7 avg) with 60.8 yards per game and 4 touchdowns. His vision and explosiveness have ignited the Atlanta ground game.
In the passing game, top WR Drake London has been Ridder’s favored target. London has hauled in 56 catches for 745 yards and 2 touchdowns while averaging a robust 13.3 yards per reception. His size, hands and run after catch ability give this offense a much needed playmaker in the passing attack. If London and Robinson get going on Sunday, it could be a long day for the Carolina defense.
Examining the Carolina Panthers Offensive Weapons
The Panthers offense has scuffled all season long, ranking last in total yards (287.5 per game) and 31st in scoring with just 17 points per contest. Their rushing attack has especially floundered, managing a league-worst 87.8 yards per game on the ground. Chuba Hubbard leads the team with just 644 total rushing yards for a 3.9 yard average.
Carolina’s most productive weapon has been veteran WR Adam Thielen, who leads the team in catches (85), yards (827) and touchdowns (4) at age 32. After Thielen though, no other Panthers pass catcher has more than 30 receptions or 2 touchdowns, underscoring their lack of depth behind him. For Carolina to challenge Atlanta’s defense, Thielen must have a monster game while others in this offense elevate their play significantly.
NFL Betting Odds: Atlanta Falcons -135, Over/Under: 36.5
The betting odds slightly favor the Atlanta Falcons, with a moneyline of -135. The spread is set at 2.5 points, reflecting the close nature of this matchup. The over/under for the game is set at 36.5, indicating expectations of a lower-scoring game.
Atlanta Falcons Betting Trends
Atlanta are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Atlanta’s last 19 games.
Atlanta are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games.
Falcons are 11-5 ATS in their last 16 games against Carolina.
Atlanta are 12-4 SU in their last 16 games against Carolina.
Atlanta are 2-10 SU in their last 12 games on the road.
Carolina Panthers Betting Trends
Carolina are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Carolina’s last 7 games.
Carolina are 0-6 SU in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Carolina’s last 7 games against Atlanta.
Total has gone UNDER in 5 of Carolina’s last 5 games at home.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Carolina’s last 6 games when playing at home against Atlanta.
Atlanta Falcons vs. Carolina Panthers Betting Picks
Considering the trends and team dynamics, this game seems to favor the Falcons, albeit narrowly. Their historical advantage over the Panthers and slightly better season performance give them the edge. For those looking at USA sportsbook options, the Falcons might be the safer bet, especially considering the Panthers’ struggles this season.
However, the Panthers playing at home could find some form, making the game closer than the odds suggest. The total score is expected to be low, considering both teams’ trends. Prop bets focusing on individual performances might offer value in this tight contest.
Score Predictions: Falcons 19, Panthers 15
