Panthers vs. Jets: Preview, score prediction for Week 12

Carolina Panthers vs. New York Jets

It’s Week 12, and it’s time for the seventh meeting in the history of the New York Jets and Carolina Panthers franchises. It’s make it or break it time for teams in the NFL. Some say the season doesn’t truly begin until Thanksgiving Weekend, when the haves separate themselves from the have-nots. Well, that’s where the Jets and Panthers both find themselves heading into their Week 12 matchup.

Both teams are actually in their respective conference’s playoff race. While the Jets find themselves on the outside looking in for the AFC East, they sit in ninth place and one game out for a spot in the AFC Playoffs. The Panthers still are in a fight for the NFC South and are in fifth in the conference standings.

As do many Panthers games, the Week 12 matchup comes down to the performance of one player. If the Jets can contain Cam Newton and keep him in the pocket, they will likely win the game, because, unlike Josh McCown, according to Pro Football Focus Elite, Newton is tied for 12th worst passer rating under pressure in the NFL. McCown is seventh best.

For the Jets, it comes down to establishing the run. Even though the Panthers come into the game with a top run defense, but the last time the Jets faced a top run defense, they scored three times on the ground and nearly rushed for 200 yards as a team. So, they know what they must do to win.

Betting Odds

Point Spread: Carolina – 4
Moneyline: Carolina -220 New York +180
Over/Under: 49.5

Prediction

If you’re a gambler, don’t take the over in this one. This game is going to be an old-fashioned, knock down, drag out defensive struggle. It’s going to be a run-based game. It’s definitely not a 21st century shootout we’re looking at. Look for the Jets and Panthers to try to establish the run early and try play keep away. It will be a defensive battle, ultimately won by New York, because they’re at home and Cam Newton won’t be able to be Superman in this game.

Score Prediction: Carolina Panthers: 14, New York Jets: 17