Broncos Bet to Beat Panthers by 2.5 Points in Week 9
Denver seeks a fifth straight win against a Carolina team that has allowed 140.7 rushing yards per game.
By Bianca Shevchenko ·
SportsLine's projection model places the Denver Broncos as the favorite to cover the spread by 2.5 points in 63% of simulations for their matchup against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
The Broncos enter the game with a four-game winning streak that has propelled them to the top of the AFC West standings. Two of those recent victories came against the Seattle Seahawks and the Kansas City Chiefs, both of whom are contenders this season. Denver's defense allows 20.6 points per game but has tightened up against the pass. Quarterback Bo Nix has not thrown an interception in five consecutive games. On the ground, rookie Jonah Coleman is gaining traction alongside JK Dobbins, creating a dual-threat backfield.
Carolina's defensive struggles have defined their recent schedule. The team has allowed 140.7 yards per game on the ground. While the Panthers won a prime-time game against the Detroit Lions in Week 4, their last two performances have been less effective. They managed only 13 points against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and required a late score to reach 19 points against the Green Bay Packers on Thursday. Quarterback Bryce Young, running back Chuba Hubbard, and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan showed promise earlier in the season, but the offensive output has dipped.
The SportsLine model assigns an 'A' grade to the Broncos covering the spread. The simulation indicates that Denver's ability to control the clock through a strong rushing attack limits the playing time for Young and his receivers. The Broncos' secondary is fully healthy, presenting a matchup challenge for the Panthers' passing game. The model's top-rated picks have been 60-51 since 2024, a record that has generated over $5,000 in profit for $100 players.
The game is scheduled for Sunday. Denver will be the visiting team. The spread is set at 2.5 points in Denver's favor. The Panthers will play at home. The outcome will determine if the Broncos extend their winning streak to five games or if the Panthers can halt the momentum of the AFC West leader.
