2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 14

Atlanta Falcons (5-7) at Carolina Panthers (5-7)

Sunday, December 12, 1PM ET

I’m sorry, but there’s little reason to have much confidence in the Carolina Panthers at this point. The firing of their offensive coordinator may help, but it’s going to take much more than a coaching change to light a fire under this offense.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons haven’t been all that bad in 2021. Sure, they’ve had some ugly games here and there. But for the most part, they’ve remained relatively competitive and continue to put pressure on quality clubs on Sundays. The Panthers aren’t a quality club right now, which leads me to believe Atlanta can get the divisional win in this one.

It’s just a matter of which Matt Ryan shows up. The veteran gunslinger has been solid this season, but several games have seen him fall apart. Against a tough Carolina defense, he’s going to need to protect the football and rely on his playmakers to put points on the board.

Cam Newton will make a splash play or two, but the lack of offensive weapons is going to hurt the Panthers in Week 14. The Falcons make just enough stops and Cordarrelle Patterson finds the end zone twice, allowing them to get a much-needed win.

Prediction: Falcons win 26-24| Spread: Panthers (-3)