Preview: New Orleans vs Carolina - Oct. 19, 2008

By Dr. Vegas

Here is a solid NFC South matchup that promises to be a battle. We have two teams that have shown moments of promise, and moments of disappointment. Carolina is a 3-point favorite and the total is 44.5. New Orleans is 3-3 SU and 4-2 against the number, while Carolina is 4-2 SU and 3-2-1 ATS. Both teams want to show that their losses were not representative of their abilities to win.

The Saints have lost their road games by an average of 3.5 points per game, while the Panthers have won their home games by an average of 17.3 points per game. The Panthers have outscored their opponents 117-97. The Saints have scored more and given up more, outscoring their opponents 172-133.

Last week, the Saints looked impressive against the Raiders, posting a 34-3 rout. The Panthers, on the other hand, only managed a field goal in their 27-3 loss in Tampa Bay.

Looking at the exclusive Dr. Vegas power ratings, we see New Orleans at +0.99, with an opponent rating of +1.97. The Panthers have a +4.54 ratings, with an opponent rating of +1.52. Their opponents have been similar, but the Saints have underperformed at times.

If the Saints can keep Drew Brees focused and on top of his game, they have the weapons to win.

Free pick from Dr. Vegas: Take Carolina -3 over New Orleans.

For a free pick every day from Dr. Vegas, check out his free pick page.