The Panthers are struggling offensively, as Jake Delhomme has been awful and the team has just two rushing touchdowns. Don't look for improvement vs. a good Redskins defense.
The Carolina Panthers haven't won a football game since December 28 of last year. That's hard to believe given the talent this team had coming into this season and their expectations.
Considering their play so far this year it's hard to see them laying over a field goal against any team.
The Panthers have only two rushing touchdowns so far this year between DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. Last year these two guys combined for 28 touchdowns. It's pretty obvious if this team can't punch the ball in the end zone on the ground they aren't going to win games.
Now they face a Washington Redskins defense that has allowed just one rushing touchdown all year. We don't see this duo of Stewart and Williams having a field day against Washington. We all know by now Jake Delhomme isn't going to lead his team through the air to victory either.
As much scrutiny that Jason Campbell has received so far with his play the Panthers QB Delhomme has been even less effective with a ratio of just 2 TD/7 Int's. As much as the media has been focusing on the bad play calling of Jim Zorn and Jason Campbells play it is quite obvious Delhomme and this Panthers offense is having much more trouble right now.
In order for Delhomme to succeed he is going to need the running game to open up the passing game. He'll also need his defense to keep the opposing offense off of the field. Clinton Portis may finally be able to really break out against this Panthers defense that is giving up over 5 yards per carry on the ground.
We expect Zorn to attack right at the middle of this Panthers defense. Carolina is giving up almost 30 points per game compared to Washington allowing just 15.5 points per game. It's clear on both sides of the ball Washington is playing better right now and maybe due to public perception is the reason Carolina is the favorite.
As bad as the Redskins have looked the Panthers are in more trouble right now and we have no problem taking over a field goal in this contest.
Free Pick: Redskins +4 (-110)