Carolina Panthers at San Francisco 49ers: betting preview and free tip

Free NFL picks, tips and predictions for Carolina Panthers at San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.

When to watch

Sky Sports Action, 8.05pm Sunday

Best bet

Carolina to score over 1.5 field goals
1pt 11-10 bet365

Game preview

San Francisco extended their unbeaten record to six last week after a dank 9-0 win in atrocious conditions against Washington, but they face an interesting clash against Carolina at Levi’s Stadium.

Since rookie quarterback Kyle Allen replaced the injured Cam Newton, the Panthers have won their last four games including two weeks ago when they hammered Tampa Bay 37-26 in London.

Carolina have racked up 71 points across their last two games and should test an imposing 49ers defence who have given up just ten points in their last three matches.

San Francisco have been at their best defending the pass, giving up the fewest average yards in the league, which could mean Carolina rely even more on star running back Christian McCaffrey to move the ball.

However, it remains a big ask for them to do damage to a defence who have continuously frustrated teams, so backing the Panthers to do their scoring through the uprights could be the way to go.

Kicker Joey Slye has been reliable in putting points on the board for Carolina and his accuracy from long distance is likely to be useful.

The lowdown

Venue Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, California
Surface Grass
Weather Clear, 21C
Vegas handicap Carolina +5.5
Vegas points line 42

Team news

Carolina
Offensive tackle Greg Little (concussion), defensive end Christian Miller (ankle) and quarterback Cam Newton (foot) have been ruled out.

San Francisco
Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon (foot), offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey (knee) and full back Kyle Juszczyk (knee) are out. Offensive tackle Joe Staley (leg) is unlikely to play. Running back Raheem Mostert (knee) and tight end Levine Toilolo (groin) are rated questionable.

Key stat

Joey Slye has scored two or more field goals in four of Carolina’s six games.

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