Eagles vs Panthers Odds - Eagles popular pick but not right pick

The Eagles vs Panthers odds have shifted around quite a bit prior to kickoff. Earlier in the preseason, the Panthers were a healthy three-point favorite but now online betting cappers have seen the Panthers become the underdog. The Eagles have plenty of offensive weapons, but they are still learning how to integrate everyone.

Eagles vs Panthers odds: Eagles -1

• WHAT: NFL betting
  
• WHEN: Sunday, September 13th – 1:00 PM ET
  
• WHERE: Bank of America Stadium – Charlotte, NC
  
• PICK: Panthers +1, Over 43.5

Eagles vs Panthers odds maker breakdown: The Storyline
The Eagles spent quite a bit of time upgrading their offense in the offseason and now we’ll see how Michael Vick, Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy all fit in. Also, they've endured numerous changes on defense, including the passing of coordinator Jim Johnson, meaning a once-steady aspect of the team is now a question mark.

For the Panthers, there is no real added story to this game. A lot of people are curious to see how quarterback Jake Delhomme will look against elite competition after his horrible playoff game. Otherwise it’s status quo for this veteran squad.

Betting Edge: Even

Eagles vs Panthers odds maker breakdown: Offense
The Eagles offense is loaded but it’s unclear how effective they can be. Sure, there may be lots of speed and the added threat of the Wildcat, but this is still a team that doesn’t consistently run the ball and relies too much on the pass. The Panthers’ defensive weakness is on the ground and the Eagles should use this as their blueprint for success.

The Panthers know what they have on offense and they know what their plan will be. They are going up against a defense that will be suspect against the run, especially since it’s with the departure of stellar safety Brian Dawkins and injury to leading-tackler Stewart Bradley. If the Panthers can run, they’ll be able to pass. If they are forced to be one-dimensional, they are in trouble.

Betting Edge: Even

Eagles vs Panthers odds maker breakdown: Defense
The Eagles had the better defense last year but after losing Dawkins (free agency), Bradley (injury) and Lito Sheppard (trade), they can’t expect to be as good. Also, mastermind Jim Johnson died, which has created even more difficulties. Fomer secondary coach Sean McDermott, 35, will take over, but you have to imagine that there’s a big drop-off after having one of the best coordinators in the game.

The Panthers have some defensive issues of their own after losing tackle Ma’ake Kemoeatu for the season. They have proven to be a little soft against the run, even though their defense doesn’t have any glaring holes except for the one that Kemoeatu left behind. NFL betting cappers should note that both defenses will not be as strong as last year’s versions.

Betting Edge: Eagles

Eagles vs Panthers odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries
As mentioned, the Panthers will be without Kemoeatu for the season. When Kemoeatu missed Week 16 last year the Panthers gave up 301 rushing yards to the New York Giants. Also, stud linebacker Jon Beason will be questionable for the season opener and the Panthers won’t expect much of an impact from running back Jonathan Stewart, who is still nursing an Achilles injury.

Betting Edge: Eagles

Eagles vs Panthers odds for total: 43.5
With both defenses struggling, the over looks like a solid play in this contest. The sportsbook odds makers have set the line at 43.5 but, considering that the Panthers should be able to run the ball well and the Eagles have tons of weapons on offense, this game should go over the total.

Pick: Over

Eagles vs Panthers betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick
The Eagles are the popular play because they have been making moves in the offseason. They added Vick and their offense has lots of speed, which is catching the public’s eye. Even so, the Panthers are at home, where they're tough to beat if they run the ball well. The Eagles have lots of nice parts on offense but it will take them some time to work out the chemistry. Stick with the home dog in this one.

STAN’S PICK: Panthers +1

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Stan Simmons first tasted football through the college game, but his football handicapping has strictly focused on the professional sport. Not many people devote as much time to the NFL as Simmons. For six days a week he works, labors and handicaps the sport, and on the seventh he rests as the games play out. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.