The Carolina Panthers (1-7) and Chicago Bears (2-7) will both put their losing streaks on the line for their battle in the NFL Thursday Night Football matchup. Currently, ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook shows the Bears are favored at -198 to win.
When: November 9, 2023 at 8:15 PM ET
Where: Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois
Watch: Prime Video
Carolina Panthers Preview
After recording their first win of the season, the Panthers dropped their next game in the blink of an eye. They were defeated 27-13 by the Indianapolis Colts and gave up 20 points alone in the second quarter to turn this into a blowout.
They are fourth in the NFC South and do not have much of a chance to catch up. Based on recent performances, it will be interesting to see if they land a few wins out of their remaining schedule.
They are averaging 17.5 points per game, ranking 26th in the league and accumulate 314.1 total yards per game, which is a bit low compared to what they allow. Defensively, they allow teams to average 28.3 points each game (31st) on 325.6 total yards. At this rate, teams are making the most of their offensive plays to land scoring opportunities, whereas the Panthers have struggled to utilize many of those opportunities.
Quarterback Bryce Young (8 TD, 7 INT) has earned 1,375 yards and is in last place for his QBR of 29.5. The Panthers will do well if he can succeed.
Chicago Bears Preview
The Bears had a respectable loss to the New Orleans Saints at 24-17. However, three interceptions by quarterback Tyson Bagent ultimately cost them key opportunities to at least tie the game. Against the Panthers, they cannot afford to allow them easy opportunities so Bagent must be more consistent.
They are still fourth in the NFC North, but have an opportunity to improve their resume. Their stats have been more appealing on occasion in comparison to other struggling teams, but have yet to be consistent.
They average 20.9 points per game (19th) and put up 346.2 total yards. Their defense has managed to keep games somewhat close, as they allow 26.9 points a game (28th) on 343.3 total yards. Closing the gap here on offense would benefit them greatly and improve their chances at success.
QB Justin Fields (11 TD, 6 INT) is listed as doubtful for this game due to his thumb. So far, he has accumulated 1,201 yards and has a QBR of 37.7 that ranks 26th. If he is absent, expect Bagent (3 TD, 6 INT) to be on the field once again.
Betting Odds
ZenSports provides the best opportunity for NFL Thursday Night Football wagering odds for bettors in Tennessee. According to market analysis, the Bears have a 61.0 percent chance to win.
Carolina Panthers: +160
Spread: +3.5 (-120)
Chicago Bears: -198
Spread: -3.5 (+100)
Total: Over 38.5 (-110), Under 38.5 (-110)
Photo Credit: © Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports