The set-up: It's a really big game for each side and because of that, I'm expecting more of a "defensive battle," where field position is paramount in the end. Seattle is in a tough division with the Rams, but it's keeping pace after last week's win over the Packers. The Panthers though have lost two in a row and they'll be risking life and limb to come up with a win today. The overall situation definitely points to a "chess match."

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but the Hawks have seen the total go "under" the number in four of their last five road games when the total in the contest is set between 45.5 and 49 points, while Carolina has seen the total go "under" in three of its last four after two or more SU losses. This number is high, play the "under."