NFL – GB Packers @ CAR Panthers

Current NFC South Champions Carolina can kick off their season with victoryover Green Bay in Monday night’s big game. At 15/8 the Panthers look a goodbet at this stage for a divisional repeat, while the Super Bowl runners-upcannot be overlooked in our outright market at 18/1 either. Last season’s defensive line may have been re-shaped but the majority of the team remainsintact and should have gained confidence from their achievements.

Receiver Steve Smith is an inspiration for the offence, while QC Jake Delhomme iscool under pressure, and. running backs Steven Davis and DeShaun Foster areboth talented. The Packers arguably overachieved last season but even sothey should have made the NFC Championship game, their defenceembarrassingly allowing the Eagles to convert on fourth and 26. Veteran QBBrett Favre will be well protected by an excellent line, which should clearbig holes for running back Ahman Green. Their defensive front should bestiffer than at the start of last season but the secondary remains aconcern.

Recommendation: Carolina -3.0 @ 20/23.