NFL Matchups, a new NFL Films production, breaks down every aspect of a game to provide insight into the teams’ strategy and tactics. Each team submits footage to be used in the series. The aim of the show is to make the game-day experience as realistic as possible for fans.
Carolina Panthers vs. Seattle Seahawks
The Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks have had a long-standing rivalry that dates back to the early 2000s. Although the Panthers joined the NFL in 1995, they didn’t face off against the Seahawks until the year 2000. Both teams have emerged as top teams in the NFC and have played a number of close games.
The Carolina Panthers and Seattle Seahawks are both favored to win this game, and Sports Line’s NFL matchup analysis model has a slight edge for the Panthers. The Panthers lost their last game to the Atlanta Falcons by a score of 40-20, and they fell behind by as much as 30 points in the third quarter. That loss eliminated them from playoff contention, so this is an opportunity for head coach Perry Feel to earn his first win as the Panthers’ head coach.
Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots
The Miami Dolphins hasn’t played well against the New England Patriots in the last few years, but they are hungry for revenge this season. Miami will look to make amends for their loss in Week 1 last season and will have superstar wide receiver Tyreek Hill at their disposal. The Patriots, meanwhile, is dealing with a lot of personnel turnover after Josh McDaniels left to become head coach of the Raiders. But they’re still one of the best in the league, and even though the Dolphins only beat the Patriots twice last season, they were able to score two defensive touchdowns in each game.
The Patriots have plenty of question marks on the offensive side of the ball. The team hasn’t hired an offensive coordinator since Josh McDaniels’ first season in New England, and they have no permanent replacement. In addition, Mac Jones is entering his second season as a quarterback, but he doesn’t have much experience in the position. Also, the team doesn’t have a solid wide receiver group. Devante Parker will be expecting to play a large role in the passing game.
Chargers vs. Jaguars
The Chargers came out strong in the first quarter against the Jaguars, but the Jaguars’ drive sputtered early. On first down, Devin Lloyd made a nice deep pass coverage play. On second down, he made an open-field tackle. It looked like the Jaguars had no chance of advancing the ball, but they got it anyway and went into the red zone. On third down, James Robinson got a big run behind left tackle Cam Robinson and ran 50 yards to the end zone. After the Chargers punted, the Jaguars continued to march down the field until they scored.
The Chargers’ offense is strength, and it should continue to show in this game. The Jaguars’ offensive line, however, will have to hold Mack and Bosa in check. On defense, the Jaguars have to be strong in the middle and in the run game.
49ers vs. Falcons
This NFL matchup features two of the best defenses in the league. The 49ers rank first in yards allowed per game and second in scoring defense, while the Falcons’ defense is ranked last in both categories. The 49ers have also gone under the total in four of their last five games.
The 49ers have a lot of talent on their roster, and they have the advantage on offense. But the Falcons’ defense is tough. The 49ers are much stronger on special teams, which could make the difference in this game.
Chargers vs. Cardinals
The Chargers and Cardinals are a pair of Southern California teams, and the first matchup on this season should be a nail-biter. They’ve been a successful combination over the years, with Los Angeles winning nine out of nine games against Arizona. Arizona, meanwhile, is 5-1 ATS over its past six openers. In addition, the Chargers have a 4-1 ATS record in their last five Monday Night games.
Both teams have impressive offenses, but they’ve also had their fair share of miscues in special teams. The Rams’ Riley Dixon blocked a punt last week, and the team’s free-kick after a safety bounced out of bounds. Matt Gray has made his last two field-goal attempts, but Matt Prater has yet to attempt one. Meanwhile, Andy Lee is averaging 40.9 net yards per kick.
Seahawks vs. Seahawks
In a matchup between two of the most feared defenses in the NFL, the Seahawks should be the underdog, but that doesn’t mean the game is a toss-up. If you are a football fan, you can’t miss this matchup!
Seattle’s offense is one of the best in the league, averaging 23.8 points per game. This is good for a team chasing a playoff spot. However, the Saints have some issues on the ground, and a weak secondary will be a problem.
