Panthers 2011 Season Odds
(The Spread) – If the odds are any indication how the Panthers will fare in 2011, Carolina might be picking high again in next year’s draft.
The Panthers spent time this offseason overhauling a roster that finished just 2-14 last season. The process started with the hiring of new head coach Ron Rivera and proceeded with the selection of future franchise quarterback Cam Newton with the first overall pick in April’s draft.
Owner Jerry Richardson also wanted to change the way the team attacked free agency, so the Panthers spent big to retain defensive end Charles Johnson and running back DeAngelo Williams. They also signed free agent Jeremy Shockey (Saints), kicker Olindo Mare (Seahawks) and quarterback Derek Anderson (Cardinals).
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But will it be enough? According to odds makers, it won’t. Only the Buffalo Bills (150/1) have worst odds than the Panthers, who are currently 125/1 to win the 2012 Super Bowl. The Panthers also have long odds to win the NFC (75/1) this year, and the NFC South Division (+2000).
That said, crazier things have happened before. If he can beat out Jimmy Clausen for the starting quarterback position, Newton proved at Auburn last year that he’s a dynamic player. It remains to be seen whether or not he can handle the complexities of running a pro-style offense, but he certainly has the arm strength and athleticism to succeed at the next level. Still, given the fact that they play in one of the toughest divisions in football, chances are the Panthers need a couple of more years to rebuild their roster before they’re competitive again.
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