So, we get a true Super Bowl contender facing a team that has all but clinched the No. 1 draft pick next spring. There’s no question that the Steelers will win this game, but can it cover a line of more than 2 TDs?
That’s a lot of points, obviously, but the Panthers are truly terrible. They need help all over the board and there’s nothing that they can do especially well, except for maybe running the ball. But the Steelers have the best rushing defence in the league – by far. They allow three yards per carry and shouldn’t have a problem with the likes of Jonathan Stewart and Mike Goodson.
Also, road teams usually fare poorly on these Thursday night affairs. It’s pretty safe to assume that the Panthers, who are winless on the road, won’t be coming out with a head of steam here.
Finally, a loss here coupled Denver and Cincinnati wins will clinch the first overall pick for the Panthers.
And can you really trust Jimmy Clausen in Pittsburgh?
Pick: PITTSBURGH -15 over Carolina.
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Last week: 10-6
This season: 120-98-5