Carolina at New England

Carolina's defense was bad last year, including preseason allowing 27, 21, and 26 points. New coach Dave Canales did a great job with QBs Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield in back-to-back years in Seattle and Tampa Bay. They've upgraded the wide receiver corps, though the defense still looks thin and weak. The Panthers are on a 16-6 run OVER the total in preseason. New England has veteran QBs Jacoby Brissett and Bailey Zappe to assist rookie Drake Maye, the third overall pick. With Bill Belichick gone, it's very likely New England's defense won't be as strong. Take Carolina/New England OVER the total.