This is a very high total. Tom Brady is throwing more and more to Rob Gronkowski and less downfield. The Patriots, who have been in their base defense just 29.8 percent of the time this season, to mostly be in their bigger base defense Monday against the power-running Panthers with a focus on stopping the run.

This is a high total against two strong front sevens. Tom Brady is on the record with how he feels about the Panthers front seven, declaring it to be as good as any other in the NFL. Carolina has been one of the most difficult defenses to run against and ranks near the top in sacks this season, generating 29 through the first nine games. The biggest test for the Patriots could be slowing down the bookend rushers for Carolina, Greg Hardy and Charles Johnson, each of whom totaled double-digits sacks last season. The center of the front seven is linebacker Luke Kuechly, who is certain to be around the ball all evening long. The Patriots offensive line will have its work cut out with this group.

The Pats do not have the explosiveness of previous years. Carolina has shown flashes, but has a nice power running game. This may not hit 40.