Panthers (+13½) over SAINTS: Off focused effort against Cardinals, Carolina graces Superdome, where John Fox and Jake Delhomme have exceeded expectations for years. Acknowledge Saints’ sustained state of grace, but by maintaining tempo, Falcons demonstrated how it’s done, against the spread. Carolina (+13½) guts it out, for one unit.

Texans (+9) over COLTS: Indianapolis might have fallen to Niners last week but for meaningful turnover advantage. Peyton Manning figures to take foe more seriously than usual, but Texans have earned their spurs, and typically keep it close here. Accept generous spot (+9) for one unit.

LAST WEEK: 1-2 (minus one unit). Oklahoma State (minus one unit). Giants (minus one unit). Panthers (plus one unit).

SEASON: 9-17 (minus eight units).

Contact Cat about his comprehensive advisory service at P.O. Box 739, Hightstown, N.J., 08520, or visit http://www.play book.com.