The Buffalo Bills will face the Carolina Panthers on October 29, 2023, in a crucial NFL Week 8 matchup. The Bills, who have suffered back-to-back losses, aim to regain their momentum against a Panthers team likely to rely on backup quarterback Andy Dalton due to Bryce Young’s ankle injury. This game presents a significant opportunity for Buffalo to reaffirm their status as a Super Bowl contender.
Dalton’s expected start will shift Carolina’s strategy, pushing them to utilize their running game more extensively. Rico Dowdle, who has emerged as a key player, is anticipated to take on a larger role. In recent weeks, Dowdle has demonstrated impressive form, accumulating a combined 389 rushing yards in Weeks 5 and 6. Although his production dipped last week to 79 yards on 17 carries, he remains a strong value pick as he looks to capitalize on Buffalo’s struggling run defense.
The Bills have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 156.3 rushing yards per game, placing them among the worst in the league. Their issues were highlighted by significant runs allowed this season, including a 46-yard run from Derrick Henry and an 81-yard run by Bijan Robinson. As the Panthers lean on their ground game, Buffalo’s defensive line must improve to avoid further exploitation.
Buffalo’s offense is also experiencing challenges. Although James Cook was instrumental in their early-season success, his involvement has waned in recent losses. The Bills will need to find ways to engage Cook and quarterback Josh Allen, who, despite a rocky outing in Week 5, has the potential to impact the game significantly. Allen’s ability to create plays with his legs adds another dimension to Buffalo’s offense, especially against a Panthers pass rush that lacks depth.
Historically, the Bills have performed well against the Panthers, covering the spread in their last four matchups. While Carolina enters this game with a three-game winning streak, the team is under pressure with a backup quarterback leading the charge. The spread reflects a narrow margin between Young and Dalton, yet many analysts expect the Bills to dominate, given Allen’s motivation to rebound from recent performances.
The over/under line has seen some movement with Dalton’s confirmed starting role, but experts believe it might not have shifted enough. Given Carolina’s recent offensive trends, the potential for high scoring remains viable, but the Bills are expected to make defensive adjustments that could limit the Panthers’ effectiveness.
As the game approaches, all eyes will be on the key players and their performances. The Bills are determined to turn their season around, while the Panthers are looking to continue their surprising run. With both teams eager for a win, this matchup promises to deliver excitement and intensity as they battle for crucial standings in the NFL.
