The hype surrounding the Indianapolis Colts for the 2021 season has cooled down following the injuries to Carson Wentz and Quenton Nelson, both of whom underwent foot surgery last week and are expected to miss anywhere between 5-12 weeks of action.
Needless to say Indy’s season could come off the rails if they get off to a slow start, which is extremely possible given how difficult their first five games are.
The Colts don’t seem all that incentivized to sign or trade for a quarterback before Week 1, meaning every preseason rep for Jacob Eason and Sam Ehlinger will be critical.
The young QBs have received mixed reviews at training camp so far, though Ehlinger has surprisingly taken the spotlight away from Eason recently. Fortunately for fans, they’ll get to watch them play in Indianapolis’ preseason opener on Sunday against Carolina.
Since we haven’t had preseason football since 2019, fans are likely drooling at the thought of placing their first NFL bets of the year. Let’s take a look at the odds, shall we?
All odds come courtesy of WynnBET.
Colts vs Panthers Odds for Preseason Opener
If you’re feeling audacious and want to bet the game on Sunday, here are the latest odds:
Spread: Colts -1.5/Panthers +1.5
Moneyline: Colts -125/Panthers +105
Over/Under: 34.5
Colts vs Panthers Prediction for Preseason Opener
Since Week 1 of the preseason is essentially a glorified scrimmage, it isn’t surprising the over/under is set extremely low. Fans should expect a sloppy, mistake-plagued game, though Indianapolis might have the advantage seeing that they’re playing at home.
We’d be flabbergasted if the Colts and Panthers played their starters for anything more than a series or two (if at all). While Carolina has quality backup QB options behind Sam Darnold in PJ Walker and Will Grier, we’re giving Indy the edge in this one.
Not only do the Colts have depth at almost every position, but their young talent is incredibly promising, and they have countless players vying for spots on the 53-man roster. With that in mind, expect head coach Frank Reich’s side to hold serve at home.
Colts Next Game and Schedule
The Colts will lock horns against the Panthers on Sunday. These teams haven’t faced each other since since Week 16 of the 2019 season, when Indianapolis rolled to a 38-6 victory.
Opponent: Carolina Panthers
Where: Lucas Oil Stadium, Downtown Indianapolis
When: Sunday, Aug. 15, 1:00 p.m. ET
What Channel is the Colts Game on Sunday?
You can catch Sunday’s game nationally on NFL Network.
Colts vs Panthers Live Stream
Fans can stream this game on FuboTV with a paid subscription, while international viewers can stream the game with a subscription to NFL Game Pass.
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