Featured Discussion Saints @ Panthers Game Day Thread

[SmashMouth]

For the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers, it's story of big-time running games but teams heading in opposite directions.

Carolina (6-7) has lost five straight — despite 747 total yards and eight touchdowns from running back Christian McCaffrey during that span — and is in dire need of a win to keep its slim playoff hopes alive . Saints running back Alvin Kamara and backfield mate Mark Ingram have New Orleans (11-2) out in front in the NFC and looking to stay a step ahead of the Los Angeles Rams in the battle for the top seed and home-field advantage in the playoffs.



Here's a rundown of how to watch or follow the game, plus expert predictions and key storylines.

THE GAME
-- Who: New Orleans Saints (11-2) at Carolina Panthers (6-7)

-- When: 7:15 p.m.

-- Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, N.C.

HOW TO WATCH + LISTEN
-- ESPN TV

-- Watch ESPN app or ESPN.com

-- WWL 870 AM/105.3 FM (New Orleans)

-- WDGL 98.1 FM (Baton Rouge)

-- KMDL 97.3 FM (Lafayette)


BREAKING DOWN THE MATCHUPS

When the Saints pass | Advantage: Saints

New Orleans should get back on track this week against a Carolina defense that ranks 20th against the pass.

When the Saints run | Advantage: Saints

Carolina has been solid against the run this year, but the Saints have a potent attack that should get what it wants.

When the Panthers pass | Advantage: Saints

New Orleans has been stellar against the pass in recent weeks, and Carolina is struggling in the same area.

When the Panthers run | Advantage: Panthers

New Orleans has stopped just about everyone this year, but Christian McCaffrey is a different type of back and could cause problems.

Special teams | Advantage: Saints

Having a trusted punter and kicker is rare in today’s NFL. New Orleans has both.

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