Panthers

Giants

The New York Giants welcome the Carolina Panthers to their first game of the season at East Rutherford’s MetLife Stadium. The visitors will be looking to re-establish some of the dominance of the 2013-2015 NFL seasons, but face opponents who will have a point to prove in front of an expectant home crowd.

Moving to their 5th coach since the Tom Coughlin era, the Giants will be looking for consistency and stability this year, after failing to make the post-season since 2016, and not winning their division since 2011. Their opponents might have seen more recent success, but again find themselves with a point to prove after a string of disappointing seasons, posting losing records since 2017. An injury-plagued season for star running back Christian McCaffrey significantly reduced offensive capabilities in both ground and air games last season, but his return alongside off-season acquisition Baker Mayfield may see some much-needed improvements come September.

Brian Daboll and the Giants will see Panthers vs Giants as an opportunity to re-establish themselves within the NFC East, which has largely been dominated by the Cowboys and Eagles in recent years. With Dallas being the next visitor to the MetLife Stadium in Week 3’s Monday Night Football, a winning home record would provide much-needed confidence in the Big Blue camp.

Those seeking to bet on NFL games might look to the likes of McCaffrey and Barkley to bring yards in the running game, with both Carolina (113YPG) and New York (129YPG) defenses allowing opportunity in the running game in 2021. NFL betting odds might not give too much away in this fixture, but home team advantage and a string of positive pre-season results might lean you towards a bet on the Giants to cover the spread.

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