Carolina Panthers banking on return to playoffs: Win total examined for 2014 season

Last season the Carolina Panthers made the leap to contender with a 12-4 record. Despite losing in the playoffs, the Ron Rivera squad turned heads in the NFC South. However, in 2014 the Panthers won’t be catching anyone off guard. In fact, the team in some ways will have a target on its back.

Despite all of the hype around quarterback Cam Newton, the offense only ranked 29th in passing. Its saving grace was the run game of Newton and DeAngelo Williams which ranked 11th. Invariably, the defense was the Panther’s strength ranking 6th against the pass and 2nd against the run.

Despite the fact Steve Smith left as a free agent, the Panthers are hoping first round receiver Kelvin Benjamin provides a spark. The Panthers also added defensive end Kony Early in the second round.

Looking to this season, the Panthers face six playoff teams with an overall schedule featuring opponents boasting a .473 winning percentage last year (22^nd toughest in the league). Furthermore, the Panthers will be playing two sets of back-to-back road games.

Oddsmakers have the posted the Panthers at 8.5 (over -130) for o/u wins. That’s a product of calling the NFC South home, where the Saints are, well, the Saints, the Falcons are still solid despite last season’s injury woes and the Buccaneers should at least be competitive.

Still, the oddsmakers have a three-and-a-half game swing from last season’s win total. If you believe Newton’s ankle will be fine this season, taking the over (perhaps even finding the win total at a higher number getting you a better payout) should be the play.