The Patriots are coming off an impressive 37-20 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. While that won’t eliminate the pain of last year’s Super Bowl loss, it’s a step on the road to redemption. The Patriots have been one of the most impressive pre-season teams, winning both of their games by a combined score of 63-37. As for the Panthers, they’ve been equally impressive, winning both of their games while scoring at least 26 points each time. Given how both teams have played, it actually makes this game somewhat tricky to handicap.

NFL Point Spread and Betting Analysis

Ron Rivera’s Panthers have traditionally registered solid pre-season results, having finished .500 or better in exhibition play over the last seven seasons. Rivera will carry over a 17-13 all-time pre-season record in to Friday’s contest.

New England had finished .500 or better in four straight pre-seasons before posting a 1-3 record in exhibition play a year ago. Belichick is 42-34 in pre-season action.

New England Patriots

Brian Hoyer was absolutely awful in the Patriots pre-season opener but they still found a way to win. Then Tom Brady got the start against the Eagles and put on an absolute show. Brady completed 19-of-26 pass attempts for 172 yards and two touchdowns, earning a small measure of redemption against the team that beat him in last year’s Super Bowl. Brady should see extended snaps in the third pre-season game as he continues to develop his chemistry with Julian Edelman, Chris Hogan and company in live game action.

Meanwhile, the Patriots defense put together a strong performance against the Eagles and will not get another dress rehearsal versus Cam Newton and a talented Carolina offense. The Eagles mostly played backups; the Panthers offenses – all of them – have played well, so this will be a stiffer test.

Carolina Panthers

Newton and Taylor Heinicke combined for 177 passing yards and a touchdown in last week’s win over the Buffalo Bills. In Week 1, the team’s quarterbacks combined for 289 passing yards and two touchdowns. Second-year running back Christian McCaffrey has looked great so far, leading Carolina with 92 rushing yards and a touchdown versus Buffalo after totaling 40 yards and a touchdown on six touches in the opener. While it’s still pre-season, McCaffrey and the Panthers ground game appear to be the strength of this team.

The question is how will the defense hold up? The Panthers gave up 23 points to the Bills and then 20 to the Dolphins. They’ll have to be better if they’re to win in this spot. At any rate, over looks like it’s the best bet.

Patriots vs. Panthers Prediction