Falcons (1-6) at Panthers (3-4)

TV: 8:20 p.m. ET Thursday, Fox and NFL Network Betmgm.com: Carolina by 2 1⁄2

Falcons’ keys: Atlanta’s strength has been QB Matt Ryan airing it out to receivers like Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley, who has had a ton of success against Carolina’s defense the last few years. Ryan should continue feeding him and Jones. Defensively, Atlanta needs someone other than star DT Grady Jarrett and up-and-coming LB Foyesade Oluokun to make stops consistently.

Panthers’ keys: Run defense has been the Achilles’ heel for Carolina the last couple of seasons. Offensively, the Panthers need to embrace WR Robby Anderson as their true No. 1 option and continue to feed WR DJ Moore.

Who wins? Panthers 33-24