Panthers at Falcons: Predictions, picks, odds for NFL Week 18 game
A victory over the Carolina Panthers (4-12) won't be enough for the Atlanta Falcons (8-8) to make the playoffs, but it's the first step they need to win the NFC South.
Even though they were out of playoff contention weeks ago, the Panthers have shown plenty of fight that should give optimism heading into next season. But that got roughed up when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were ruthless against them in Week 17. Now they'll get a chance to be a spoiler to end the season on a high note.
Atlanta had a chance to retain the lead in the NFC South, but a missed field goal on the final play of regulation and an overtime struggle now have the Falcons needing some help to make the playoffs. It will surely be a roller coaster of emotions for the Falcons, who need a win and hope the Saints can pull off an upset.
Falcons vs. Panthers odds, moneyline, over/under
The Falcons are favorites to defeat the Panthers, according to the BetMGM NFL odds. Not interested in this game? Check out expert picks and best bets for every NFL game this week.
- Spread: Falcons (-8.5)
- Moneyline: Falcons (-450); Panthers (+350)
- Over/under: 48
NFL Week 18 odds, predictions and picks
Cardinals vs. 49ers | Falcons vs. Panthers | Ravens vs. Browns | Cowboys vs. Commanders | Broncos vs. Chiefs | Lions vs. Vikings | Packers vs. Bears | Colts vs. Jaguars | Rams vs. Seahawks | Raiders vs. Chargers | Patriots vs. Bills | Jets vs. Dolphins | Eagles vs. Giants | Steelers vs. Bengals | Buccaneers vs. Saints | Titans vs. Texans
Lorenzo Reyes: Falcons 28, Panthers 13
Atlanta gets into the playoffs with a win and a Buccaneers loss. It’s still a long shot, but, with Michael Penix stabilizing the quarterback position, I like the Falcons to cover here.
Richard Morin: Falcons 33, Panthers 30
It's been an impressive late-season run by the Panthers and a Week 18 loss to the Falcons won't change that. Atlanta needs a win to stay alive and they'll get it, but I'm wary of the spread.
Jordan Mendoza: Falcons 27, Panthers 17
Atlanta has to take care of business against a team that − on paper − isn't close to them. The Falcons should handle business, but there will be plenty of scoreboard-watching in Atlanta.