[8:30 PM] Panthers @ Redskins

Who will WIN this matchup?

Carolina Panthers (5-8)

@ Washington Redskins (7-5)

 

• The line for this game is Washington by 7 points.

• How much of an impact Josh Norman’s decision to leave Carolina via free agency had on the team will never be known, but one thing is certain: The Panthers will need a miracle to return to the postseason. Sitting three games out of the final playoff spot in the NFC with three to play, Carolina will pay a visit to Norman and the Washington Redskins on Monday night.

• Although Carolina is coming off a 28-16 victory over San Diego, its playoff hopes went on life support following a disastrous two-game West Coast trip in which its defense was carved up for 75 points in losses at Oakland and Seattle. Star middle linebacker Luke Kuechly, sidelined for the past three games, has practiced fully for the past three days but remains in the NFL’s concussion protocol and has been ruled out for Monday night.  Newton, dealing with a sore throwing shoulder that limited him in practice this week, has only 15 touchdown passes after tossing a career-high 35 last season and has failed to reach 200 yards in the air in three of the past four games. Carolina has amassed a league-best 39 sacks.

• Washington coach Jay Gruden is not worried about Norman being overly amped up to face his former team, which allowed him to walk as a free agent after pulling back the franchise tag. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has surpassed 4,000 yards for the second straight season and could get a boost with tight end Jordan Reed (shoulder), limited to one catch last week. Washington has won three straight at home, averaging 33 points.

• Newton has seven touchdown passes and zero interceptions in three meetings versus Washington.

• Redskins LB Ryan Kerrigan has eight sacks and two forced fumbles in the past eight home games.

• Panthers TE Greg Olsen is 93 yards shy of his third straight 1,000-yard season.

 

StreakSmarts Pick: Washington Redskins 

Confidence: 4/10

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