This pick is not so much because of Cam Newton's absence because I actually think the Panthers will be just fine at quarterback with Kyle Allen, especially considering how poorly Newton has been playing. It's more about Kyler Murray in his third game with the Cardinals continuing to gain comfort and confidence. The veteran playmakers and improving Arizona offense have me with the Cards as a five-point home favorite here, so I love the value. Christian McCaffrey will get his, but if Arizona can limit him some, it should walk away with a victory.

Cam Newton’s limitations to Carolina's passing offense has put the Panthers in an 0-2 spot. With Kyle Allen getting his first start this season, it’s easy to overlook the Panthers' key advantage of veterans. While Kyler Murray has looked comfortable with Larry Fitzgerald and Christian Kirk, look for Kyle Allen to get the upper hand in this one. Grab the points with Carolina.

Even if Panthers QB Cam Newton plays, I still think the Cardinals will win this game. Newton is doubtful. But I’ve seen enough of the Cardinals in their last five quarters to believe they’re going to turn things around in the red zone, where they have settled for field goals the last two weeks. Their plans all come to fruition this week. Back the Cardinals to get the cover.

Who thought the Cardinals would find favor this early in their overhaul process? This pick is predicated on the likely absence of Carolina quarterback Cam Newton (foot). Though the Panthers are coy about his status, Newton missed practice Thursday, leaving undrafted NFL sophomore Kyle Allen as the apparent starter. Arizona rookie quarterback Kyler Murray is adapting nicely to Kliff Kingsbury’s college-style offense, which is much better than its predecessor. It should register enough points against a visiting team minus its main man.

Cam Newton is questionable for this game with a foot sprain, but he hasn't exactly looked like the Cam Newton of old all season. Newton hasn't thrown a touchdown pass yet in 2019, and his 26.4 quarterback rating is 29th in the NFL. If Newton is out, then Carolina turns to second-year QB Kyle Allen – who is 20-for-31 for 266 yards and two TDs in his career. The Cardinals are looking better and better every week, with rookie QB Kyler Murray maturing every game under first-year coach Kliff Kingsbury. That maturation continues in this game.