Carolina Panthers @ New England Patriots Preview and Predictions

It is difficult to think of a week 4 matchup in the NFL as "season defining" but here we are. It is a must win for the Patriots. 

Where to watch and listen

The Patriots are at home for the second week in a row facing the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium at 1 p.m. EST, Sunday September 28th live on CBS-WBZ and on 98.5 FM The Sports Hub radio.

Last time out and series record

The Pats haven't met the Panthers since a 24-6 Patriots win in November 7 2021. The pair have met eight times in their histories, series is ties at 4 wins each. The last time Carolina visited New England was October 1st 2017 where the Panthers won 33-30.

What to look out for

The Pats run defense is one of the best in the league and that is contributing to the team keeping the score of our opponents down. That needs to continue. LB Robert Spillane also came to light against Pittsburgh. We need him to continue that form.

The Pats had some RB trouble last week against the Steelers, with 3 fumbles. Mike Tomlin noticed that our RB unit was vulnerable and he showed tape to his team and they executed that by exploiting that weakness. We are going to have to clean that up pronto. Our chances rely on it. You can't fumble 3 times (4 including Maye's) and expect to win many games in the NFL. 

Drake Maye has been improving but a fumble and and INT last week, along with some poor moments means he still has work to do to clean up the mistakes, I expect him to drive on and keep improving. TE Hunter Henry is a vital part of our offense and one who I would consider Maye's favourite target. Need to continue to see huge games from Henry.

Odds and prediction

Patriots are listed as 5.5-point favorites with the over/under for the game sitting at 42.5 points. My prediction is the Pats are comfortable winners 28-17.