Cardinals at Panthers

Although the Cardinals led the powerful NFC West conference for most of the season, and compiled a good 11-5 record, their stat profile is mostly average. Their strongest suit is defenese -- they held opponents to 18.69 Points Allowed per game, 5th lowest in the league (weekly chart below).

The Panthers came first in this season's weakest conference, the NFC South, securing a playoff berth with losing record, 7-8-1. The Panthers do bring to this matchup a strong running game, earning 29.56 Rushing Plays per game, 8th in the league (chart below).

This figures to be a low-scoring contest that could go either way. The computer gives the Panthers a slim 0.32-point advantage (including 3 full points for having the home field). Panthers are on a 4-game win streak; the momentum gives them a chance. Looks like a complete toss up to me: pick 'em.

Bill Sanders for BudGoodeSports.com
dr.bill@wrsanders.com

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