Carolina Panthers vs. San Francisco 49ers Prediction, TV Channel, Live Stream, Kickoff Time and NFL Game Preview

The Carolina Panthers vs. San Francisco 49ers prediction takes center stage as both teams meet on Monday Night Football in Week 12. The NFC showdown kicks off at 8:15 p.m. ET on November 24 at Levi’s Stadium. Fans across the country will tune in as the Panthers return to primetime for the first time in two years.

The matchup carries playoff implications for both sides. Carolina enters at 6-5 and continues to fight in the NFC South, while San Francisco sits at 7-4 and holds a postseason spot despite key injuries. ESPN confirmed the national broadcast with Joe Buck and Troy Aikman on the call.

Game Preview and Broadcast Breakdown

The Panthers and 49ers meet for the first time since 2022, a period that reshaped both franchises. Carolina traded Christian McCaffrey to San Francisco that season, and Monday marks his first game against his former team. According to AP reports, the 49ers have surged in the years since the trade, securing multiple playoff wins and a Super Bowl appearance.

Carolina has shown improvement in 2025, highlighted by last week’s 30-27 overtime win over Atlanta. Ryan Fitzgerald delivered the deciding kick in a resilient road effort. The Panthers now aim for a fourth straight road victory, something not achieved since their dominant 2015 season.

San Francisco enters with a 7-4 record after a 41-22 win over the Cardinals. Brock Purdy threw three touchdowns, and Christian McCaffrey added two rushing scores. The 49ers remain dangerous despite ranking 27th in rushing offense. Their depth has helped them stay competitive through multiple injuries, as noted by ESPN analysts.

Fans watching from home can follow the game on ESPN, NFL+, and national radio via Westwood One. Local radio coverage will air on 99.7 FM The Fox in Charlotte. Spanish radio is available through WXNC in the Carolina region.

Matchup Storylines and Early Prediction

The Carolina Panthers vs. San Francisco 49ers prediction leans heavily on Carolina’s rushing strength versus San Francisco’s explosive scoring capability. Carolina ranks top-ten in rushing, averaging nearly 127 yards per game. Their formula has been ball control and defensive toughness. The challenge will be slowing Purdy, McCaffrey, and a 49ers offense that has produced high point totals in recent weeks.

The 49ers have scored 261 points this season, while allowing 252. Their games have trended high-scoring, with their last three outings surpassing 58 total points. Carolina, meanwhile, has shown late-game resilience. Their offense remains streaky, but the run game has kept them competitive in close matchups.

San Francisco is favored due to home-field advantage, star playmakers, and coaching continuity. However, Carolina’s improved resilience and recent road momentum make this a more competitive matchup than many expected. Analysts from Reuters noted that primetime road underdogs have performed well throughout the season, adding intrigue to the contest.

In the end, the Carolina Panthers vs. San Francisco 49ers prediction points toward a physical NFC battle. Carolina will try to control the clock, while San Francisco aims to strike quickly with Purdy and McCaffrey. With playoff stakes rising, expect a fast-paced, emotional Monday night finish.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time does the Panthers vs. 49ers game start?

The game begins at 8:15 p.m. ET on Monday, November 24. It airs nationally on ESPN.

Q2: How can fans watch the Panthers vs. 49ers live stream?

Fans can stream the game through NFL+, ESPN’s app, or YouTube TV with NFL Sunday Ticket for out-of-market access.

Q3: Why is the McCaffrey storyline important?

This is Christian McCaffrey’s first game against his former team since being traded in 2022. Both franchises changed direction after the move.

Q4: What is the Panthers’ biggest strength entering Week 12?

The Panthers rank among the top rushing teams in the NFL, averaging nearly 127 yards per game.

Q5: Are both teams still in the playoff race?

Yes. San Francisco currently holds a playoff spot, and Carolina remains within striking distance in the NFC South.