NFL Power Rankings: Patriots climb entering Week 16

team. 87. <p>Just when it looked like we might have a reason to hate on the Panthers for the way they played this season, they go out and do something that you can’t help but be in awe of. After blowing a 35-7 lead in the fourth quarter to the Giants, Cam Newton reassured us all that he’s the MVP of the NFL by cooly leading the Panthers down the field for the win.</p> <p>Newton went off again for 5 touchdowns and over 300 yards, continuing his case to be the MVP this year. While he was a little too cocky for some early on in the year, he’s grown into his trollish ways and has fully embraced his swagger — which is so fantastic to see. Newton is quickly becoming a fan favorite throughout the NFL and he’s no doubt entering elite territory.</p> <p>How far he can take the Panthers is the question, as they had a pretty massive scare against a pretty so-so Giants team on Sunday. That being said, they won the game and have quality wins against the Packers and Seahawks already this year. They may not be Super Bowl bound, but the Panthers are hard to argue against as being favorites in the NFC.</p>. (14-0). Previous: . carolina panthers. 1