2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 4

Carolina Panthers (3-0) at Dallas Cowboys (2-1)

Sunday, October 3, 1PM PT

Kudos to the Carolina Panthers. They’ve had a fairly easy road to 3-0, all things considered. Even their domination of the New Orleans Saints wasn’t that surprising. However, the Dallas Cowboys are going to be a completely different beast that they’ll have a hard time corralling.

Since his return, Dak Prescott has been playing like a man possessed. He’s been the life force behind the Cowboys’ high-octane offense, with Ezekiel Elliott playing a subdued role while Dallas unleashes their star quarterback. It’s odd, but it’s working for them.

As great as the Panthers have been, I’m not convinced they can keep pace on the scoreboard with the Cowboys. The Dallas defense has shown marked improvement, which could make life difficult for Sam Darnold despite showing his own immense improvement this season. While the Panthers have been excellent on defense, I don’t see them slowing Prescott and Co. in Week 4.

I’m getting the feeling this 3-0 team will fall from the ranks of the undefeated. Carolina deserves a nod for getting to this point despite being largely overlooked to start the season, but the Cowboys deserve more respect for the pounding they’re about to put on the Panthers.

Prediction: Cowboys win 41-23 | Spread: N/A