The Buffalo Bills will face off against the Carolina Panthers on October 29, 2023, in a crucial Week 8 matchup in Charlotte. After experiencing back-to-back losses, the Bills are eager to reclaim their status as Super Bowl contenders. Meanwhile, the Panthers are likely to start backup quarterback Andy Dalton as Bryce Young deals with an ankle injury, reshaping the dynamics of the game.
Dalton’s presence in the lineup is expected to significantly influence the Panthers’ strategy. With Young sidelined, Carolina is anticipated to rely heavily on their running game, featuring Rico Dowdle, who has been in excellent form recently. Over the last two weeks, Dowdle accumulated a combined total of 389 rushing yards. Although he recorded 79 yards on 17 carries in his last game, he demonstrated efficiency that could be advantageous against Buffalo’s struggling defense.
The Bills have encountered difficulties stopping the run, allowing an alarming average of 156.3 rushing yards per game, the second-worst record in the NFL. This statistic raises concerns as they prepare to face a Panthers team that will likely focus on exploiting this weakness. Carolina’s offense will look to Dowdle and fellow running back Chuba Hubbard to capitalize on these opportunities.
Buffalo’s defense, while bolstered by the return of some defensive linemen after their bye week, still faces challenges. The team has allowed significant gains on the ground, highlighted by Derrick Henry’s 46-yard rush in Week 1 and Bijan Robinson’s 81-yard run in Week 6. James Cook, who had been a focal point of the Bills’ offense earlier in the season, saw diminished involvement during their recent losses. Nonetheless, his capacity to break free for substantial yardage remains a potential game-changer.
Buffalo has historically performed well against Carolina, covering the spread in their last four meetings. This trend could influence betting dynamics, particularly as the Bills look to bounce back from their recent setbacks. Quarterback Josh Allen will be under pressure to deliver a strong performance, especially after a less-than-stellar outing in a Week 5 loss. His ability to escape the pocket and generate plays on the run could be crucial, particularly with a limited Panthers pass rush.
Despite their recent struggles, the Bills hold a record of 6-3 in their last nine matchups, demonstrating their potential to rebound. While the Panthers have secured three consecutive victories, they now face a well-rested Bills team eager to prove itself. Although the over/under line has shifted slightly in response to Dalton’s expected start, analysts anticipate that Buffalo will improve defensively, particularly with the return of key players.
In summary, as the Bills prepare for their encounter with the Panthers, all eyes will be on how they adjust their game plan to counter Carolina’s running attack. The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams as they navigate the challenges of the ongoing NFL season.
