Carolina at Atlanta

The Atlanta Falcons put forth a lot of energy last week against the San Francisco 49ers. But like many times before this season, it simply wasn't good enough. They now must come back on short rest to take on Carolina, a team with a lot to play for. A victory for the Panthers secures the NFC South crown. Most people think of defense when they think of the Panthers, and yes their defense is very good. But when is it not as good? At home this team allows just 11.9 points per game but on the road that jumps by 6 points per game to 17.9. In domes where they face teams built for the fast turf, Carolina has allowed 21 points per game this season which is very pedestrian. This Panthers offense can score. On the season they are averaging 23 points per game (24.4 per game in division games). And let's not forget this offense can explode, having scored 30+ in six games this season. The Falcons defense is weak, allowing 28.1 per game while their offense is serviceable at 22.2 per game. In their last nine home games where this offense is at its best, the Falcons are 9-2 to the OVER. Take the OVER in this one.