Patriots at Panthers: Brandon Lafell TD catch in first quarter (GIF)

Nov 18, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Brandon LaFell (11) celebrates after scoring a touchdown with wide receiver Steve Smith (89) and guard Nate Chandler (78) and fullback Mike Tolbert (35) in the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

The Carolina Panthers are one of the hottest teams in the NFL right now, without a doubt. After a year last season in which criticisms were running rampant with star QB Cam Newton and head coach Ron Rivera, this team has put together a five-game win streak, and they’re looking to make it six tonight if they can beat the New England Patriots.

So far, they’re off to a hell of a good start.

As the first half comes to a close, the Panthers currently hold a 10-3 lead over the Pats at home.

The Panthers got seven in the first quarter off of a terrific first quarter pass over the middle from Newton to LSU-product Brandon Lafell, which resulted in a nine-yard score:

lafell /

If the offense works like this on a consistent basis, especially with the way the Carolina defense plays, there’s not telling where this team could end up down the road. Super Bowl? It’s a possibility.

Home/Carolina Panthers