The Carolina Panthers Look to Rebound After Disastrous Season

Mon, Feb 26, 2024
by CapperTek

The Carolina Panthers are coming off one of the worst seasons in recent memory, having finished 2022-23 with a league-worst record of 5-12. As a team that was in the Super Bowl just a few years ago, it was a steep downfall that led to major changes in the organization.

Most notably, the Panthers fired head coach Matt Rhule mid-season as the losses piled up. They have since hired Frank Reich as their new head coach, known for leading the Colts to the playoffs and skillfully working with quarterbacks. This coaching change brings hope of a new direction.

As Carolina looks to rebound in 2023-24, what are their realistic odds of turning things around quickly and competing for a championship?

Right now, sportsbooks show the Panthers as a major long shot to win the next Super Bowl. Most North Carolina betting promos show them at +15000 odds, higher than all but one or two teams. This means a $100 wager would net $15,000 in profit if Carolina managed to win it all.

The Panthers do play in a relatively weak NFC South division that was won with a losing record last season. This provides some glimmer of hope. However, the Panthers would need to improve by at least 5-6 wins to even have a chance at the playoffs next season.

The coaching and culture changes are a good start. But Reich will also need to settle on a quarterback. With Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold both struggling mightily, the team may use their high draft pick to select a new franchise QB they can build an offense around.

If the Panthers were to find their quarterback of the future in the draft and show strong improvement to make the playoffs next season, perhaps their future odds would shorten to something like +8000 or better. Still a long shot, but not out of the question a few years down the road.

Especially if other NFC contenders like Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers retire soon, the conference could be more wide-open. The 49ers and Eagles played in the 2022-23 championship game after barely making the 2021-22 playoffs, so fast turnarounds are possible.

For spread bettors looking at early lines, most 2023-24 games with Carolina receiving at least a touchdown handicap at -110 odds seem fair. The Panthers might manage 8 or 9 wins if things break right under their new coach, but they are unlikely to immediately become dominant after such a poor showing.

Over/under win totals for Carolina in 2023-24 should open around 6.5. The over-at-standard -110 odds could have some value if you believe Reich and a new quarterback can spark an improved culture. But anticipate their divisional matchups against Tampa Bay and New Orleans being tough regardless.

In the end, a 2024-25 playoff appearance followed by true contention in 2025-26 or 2026-27 is the most realistic championship window for the rebranded Carolina squad. Be patient and monitor the quarterback and coaching stability. Any North Carolina betting promos above +15000 for next year’s Super Bowl remain appropriate for this rebuilding team. The future odds could be shortened if the foundation looks strong early on.