The Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers kick off their respective NFL preseason slates on Friday evening at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. NFL Network has coverage beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET.
My Browns vs. Panthers predictions are eyeing a victory for the visitors with motivated rookie QB Shedeur Sanders under center.
Read more in my NFL picks for Friday, August 8.
Browns vs Panthers prediction
Browns vs Panthers Best bet: Browns moneyline (+235 at bet365)
With the Cleveland Browns dealing with injuries to Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders will get the start in the first preseason game. Tyler Huntley was also signed recently and will potentially get reps on Friday in Charlotte, but Joe Flacco isn’t expected to play at all.
One could say Sanders is being thrown into the fire, but he’s used to pressure from college and simply growing up as the son of an NFL icon.
Cleveland hasn’t announced if a lot of its starters will suit up in the preseason opener, but it’s likely some offensive weapons will get reps to supplement Sanders.
On the other hand, Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales announced that a lot of his offensive starters will play Friday, including third-year QB Bryce Young.
But Carolina lost its only preseason game at home last summer and went 3-6 at Bank of America Stadium in the 2024 regular season.
While the Browns had one road win last season, the biggest reason for this pick is Sanders. He’s currently fourth on the QB depth chart, but this is a clear opportunity to show the coaching staff what he’s capable of.
The Panthers were also dead last in numerous defensive categories last year, adding even more value to the lofty plus-money price tag.
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Browns vs Panthers odds
Browns vs Panthers live odds
Browns vs Panthers opening odds
- Spread: Browns +0.5 | Panthers -0.5
- Moneyline: Browns +102 | Panthers -122
- Over/Under: Over 33.5 | Under 33.5
How to watch Browns vs Panthers
| Location: | Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC |
| Date: | Friday, August 8, 2025 |
| Kickoff: | 7:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | NFL Network |
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