NFL Picks Week 7: Redskins Perfect Victims for Cam Newton and Panthers

The Panthers and their rookie QB, Cam Newton, have been close in every game this season. They have lost only one game by more than one score and that was last week to the Atlanta Falcons.

That 14-point deficit was a little deceiving, as the Panthers were certainly in that game. They even had a lead in the second half.

The Redskins are in a bit of transition. They have dumped Rex Grossman after he was benched for a barrage of interceptions over a three-game span.

John Beck relieved him last week against the Philadelphia Eagles. He showed some leadership, but, ultimately, the Redskins fell.

The Panthers' problems stem from inconsistent performances in the running game. That is, of course, unless you count the stellar rushing Newton himself has produced.

Not only does the rookie lead the team in rushing TDs, he's tied for second in the NFL in that category with six. Only Adrian Peterson has more with seven.

As spectacular as that is, the Panthers must create more balance in their rushing attack. They need to get the ball in the hands of their running backs.

Expect the Panthers to be extremely conservative against the solid defense of the Redskins. I think this conservative approach will help balance the Panthers' attack.

The Redskins will struggle to score in this game.

They are averaging 13 points per game over their last three matchups. Much of that was about Grossman. The other factor is that they don't have an abundance of weapons.

If the Panthers utilize both running backs, Steve Smith will have to be shadowed by DeAngelo Hall, but Greg Olsen should continue his strong season up the middle of the field and the Panthers will win, 20-14.