Panthers at Browns prediction
Panthers -2.5
Both teams responded to season-opening losses with impressive wins. Carolina forced five turnovers and crushed Atlanta, 34-3, after allowing 59 points to Chicago. Cleveland, meanwhile, rallied from a 10-point, second-half deficit to stun Tampa Bay as an eight-point underdog for the biggest underdog upset of Deshaun Watson's career. I don't trust either team. I just trust the Panthers a little more. Carolina's defense remains inconsistent, though I'm willing to somewhat forgive the Week 1 disaster given it was Chicago on the other side. Bryce Young's offense has scored 37 and 34 points, with Tetairoa McMillan and Darren Waller emerging as dangerous targets. The Panthers should produce enough offense in Cleveland to cover the short number.
-Adam
Kaufman
Panthers vs Browns spread, moneyline, total
- Spread: Panthers -2.5
- Moneyline: Panthers -140; Browns +115
- Over/Under: 42.5
Why the Panthers will cover the spread
Only the Buffalo Bills (38.5) are scoring more points per game than the Carolina Panthers (35.5) through two weeks. On defense, the Panthers created five turnovers against the Falcons last time out. All of which is to say a Browns team with meh quarterback play and a non-existent run game is in trouble this week. This spread might not be large enough for the Browns to remotely keep pace.
-Blake Schuster
Why the Browns will cover the spread
Both the Browns and Panthers are riding high, but Sunday is a classic lookahead spot for both. Cleveland has a Thursday night AFC North showdown with Pittsburgh on deck, while Carolina faces Detroit Sunday night. That could leave the door open for a tight game in Cleveland. Deshaun Watson should also feel more confident after leading the Browns to a 23-19 comeback win over Tampa Bay. Quinshon Judkins has been quiet through two games, but this feels like a spot where he can make a mark. If Judkins can finally establish the run, Cleveland will control the tempo and keep it a one-score game. Take the Browns to keep this close, and don't be surprised if they win outright again.
-Tom Viera
Where to watch Panthers at Browns
- Matchup: Browns vs. Panthers
- Date: Sept. 27
- Time: 1:00 p.m.
- Venue: Huntington Bank Field
- Location: Cleveland, Ohio
- TV: Fox
Super Bowl 61 updated odds
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Browns vs Panthers predictions: High-scoring Carolina faces rebounding Browns
Information in this article was imported automatically into a template written and reviewed by a USA TODAY Sports editor. You can send feedback using this form.
Advertiser disclosure: USA TODAY may earn a commission when you sign up through links on this page. Commissions never influence our editorial coverage or rankings. Offers and odds were accurate at publication and are subject to change; terms apply — see the operator’s site. This is general information, not betting, legal or financial advice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, USA TODAY is not liable for losses arising from your use of it.
Must be 21+ (18+ where permitted). Sports betting and casino gaming are not legal everywhere; complying with the laws where you are located is your responsibility. Gamble only with funds you can afford to lose. Gambling problem? Help is available 24/7 — call or text 1-800-GAMBLER, or call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET. State helplines and responsible gaming resources.
