The outlook of the Carolina Panthers’ season changed with a switch to Andy Dalton at quarterback. Now Dalton and Carolina’s revamped offense will face his former team when the Panthers host the struggling Cincinnati Bengals. Even though the Bengals are winless this season, they are favored in this matchup.
Taking over for benched starter Bryce Young, Dalton became the first QB this season to throw for 300 yards and three touchdowns in a game during a decisive road win over the Raiders. Carolina’s rejuvenated offensive line gives Dalton a clean pocket (five hits, two sacks allowed last game) and lanes for featured back Chuba Hubbard (169 yards total offense against Raiders). A working passing game with Dalton ignited offseason acquisition Diontae Johnson. The wideout had fourteen targets from Dalton that led to eight grabs, 122 yards and a TD. But Johnson is questionable for Sunday’s game.
Cincinnati’s defense is scrambling after an embarrassing Monday defeat against Washington. The Bengals didn’t force a punt, get a stop or generate a turnover against rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. With competent QB play, Carolina’s offense is no longer a pushover — even with wide receiver Adam Thielen’s move to IR this week.
The offense hasn’t been the problem for Cincinnati the last two weeks. With the return of wide receiver Tee Higgins from injury during Week 3, quarterback Joe Burrow has a full field of options. Star receiver Ja’Marr Chase immediately benefited from Higgins’ return with 118 yards and two touchdowns against Washington.
Getting to Burrow is a focus for Carolina’s front. Week 3’s win over Las Vegas saw the Panthers defense generate six quarterback hits and three sacks — more pressure than the first two weeks combined.
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Cincinnati Bengals at Carolina Panthers odds
How to watch Bengals vs. Panthers
- Venue: Bank of America Stadium — Charlotte
- Time: 1 p.m. ET
- TV: FOX
- Streaming: Fubo (try for free)
Expert picks for Bengals vs. Panthers
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(Photo of Andy Dalton: Steve Marcus / Getty Images)
