Here’s something NFL fans have not experienced in two-plus seasons. The Carolina Panthers, losers of three straight, opened Monday as the early betting favorite to beat the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday at Bank of America Stadium.
The Panthers (3-10) have dropped three straight close contests against playoff contenders. Against the NFC East-leading Philadelphia Eagles (11-2), the Panthers had a chance to pull off the biggest upset in three seasons, but rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette dropped a potential game-winning touchdown during the final minute.
The Panthers’ past five outings have been decided by six points or fewer.
The sportsbooks have taken notice.
Listed Carolina as 1.5-point favorites over the Cowboys, according to CBS Sports. It marked the first time since Week 15 of the 2022 season – 33 games – that the Panthers didn’t open early-week betting as the underdog.
The Cowboys (5-7), directed by new quarterback Cooper Rush, were slated to play the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night. Winners of two straight entering the Week 14 matchup, the Cowboys’ odds could improve if it continues to distance themselves from the mid-season, five-game losing streak.
For the 1st time since Week 15 2022, #Panthers are receiving favorite sports-betting odds vs. #Cowboys … pic.twitter.com/NYatJPElRL
— Jeff Hawkins (@WriterHawkins) December 10, 2024
Rookie RB Jonathon Brooks Tears ACL Again
The Panthers attempted the soft touch when it came to rookie running back Jonathon Brooks recuperating from a knee injury he suffered in November 2023 while with the Texas Longhorns. Thirteen months later, Brooks, on a non-contact carry versus the Eagles, sustained his second ACL tear. The second-round draft pick could be lost until 2026.
The Panthers held Brooks out through training camp and spent the first 10 regular-season weeks on injured reserve. He made his NFL debut in Week 11 and compiled nine carries for 22 yards and three receptions for 23 yards.
“Everyone is pulling for him,” coach Dave Canales said Monday, per Panthers.com.
The Panthers’ depleted running back room also lost Raheem Blackshear (chest) Sunday. With Miles Sanders (ankle) on IR, Mike Boone was elevated from the practice squad to serve as RB2.
@Panthers rookie RB Jonathon Brooks (24) sustained his 2nd ACL tear in 2 seasons … pic.twitter.com/ZRbwX2PvBW
— Jeff Hawkins (@WriterHawkins) December 10, 2024
No Surprise: Panthers Struggle Against Eagles’ Run Game
The Panthers’ defense continues to struggle versus the run game.
Sunday’s outcome was no different as Eagles running back Saquon Barkley compiled 124 yards, averaging 6.2 yards per attempt. For the game, the Panthers yielded 209 rushing yards.
The Panthers entered Monday ranked last in the league by a wide margin, surrendering 170.1 rushing yards per game. The Cowboys were 31st at 147.6 yards per game.
#Panthers DL continues to sidestep improvement against the opponents’ running game, ranking last in the #NFL – by far … pic.twitter.com/7OuSSQlGHh
— Jeff Hawkins (@WriterHawkins) December 10, 2024
