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Panthers vs. 49ers: Breaking down San Francisco’s game plan

By Chris Wilson

CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: The Carolina Panthers line up against the San Francisco 49ers in the 1st quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: The Carolina Panthers line up against the San Francisco 49ers in the 1st quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 18: Mike Tolbert #35 of the Carolina Panthers runs with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Point Spread and Predictions

The Panthers are currently favored by 5.5 points over the 49ers, per the consensus line at SportsBookReview.com. Sports books and Vegas casinos have received an overwhelming percentage of bets on Carolina, yet the line has only moved 1.5 points from the opening line posted early this year.

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This isn’t a case of reverse line movement, but the limited movement of the line over multiple months of betting tells us that while the public is strongly on the Panthers, a lot of sharps believe this game will be much closer than the teams’ 2016 matchup.

The 5.5-point spread seems  appropriate given the current state of the two teams, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it move up to six points by Sunday’s kickoff.

The Panthers have more established talent than the 49ers, and their off-season additions are sure to have a positive impact on Sunday; the team’s biggest question mark is Newton — both his health, and his ability to bounce back from his disappointing 2016 season.

On the other hand, the 49ers are a team filled with question marks; from their shaky offensive line to their young secondary, to their changes to their roster, coaching staff and front office.

Next: Niner Noise previews Week 1 with Cat Chronicles

I have faith that Shanahan will formulate a game plan with the ability to lead the 49ers to victory; the question is whether the personnel on the field will be able to execute it to precision, and produce another opening day win for the team.