This will be a tough game for the Panthers as the Patriots are likely in a very bad mood after losing last week.  The Panthers will have a decent shot of making this game competitive if DeAngelo Williams can go this weekend.  Regardless, the Panthers will be leaning on the running game with Jonathan Stewart if Williams can’t go.  The Patriots are allowing 107.9 yards rushing per game and 4.3 yards per carry so their are yards to be had in the running game.  That’s good news because Matt Moore will likely have trouble getting the ball downfield in this game as the Patriots will no doubt be doubling Steve Smith.

The Patriots are going to come out throwing the ball to put pressure on the Panthers to get out of their gameplan on offense.  DE Julius Peppers has to get to Tom Brady in this game or it could be a long day for the defense.  The Panthers need to force the Patriots out of the passing game and that is almost impossible to do.

PREDICTION:  PATRIOTS 33, PANTHERS 13