NFL power rankings, Week 8: Vikings fall, Lions rise
By Staff
87. Look, a week where the Panthers didn’t lose! Carolina got a much-needed bye week after losing four straight games coming off their Super Bowl run. You can blame the injuries to Cam Newton, Thomas Davis, Charles Johnson, and others as much as you want, but that doesn’t show up in the standings. Wins and losses on the other hand do. The defense has allowed 176 points, second worst to only the San Francisco 49ers, who don’t believe in defense. It will be an unexpectedly long year for Panthers fans, and not as in games on the calendar. <p>Next Week: Fans get to watch a rematch of the NFC Championship game when the Arizona Cardinals come to town. Both teams are not where many expected, and a loss next week will all-but end any playoff hopes for the Panthers. Many jobs rest on this game, making it even more important for everyone involved.</p> <p>Playoff Hopes: “What is zero, Alex?” Correct! Unless the Falcons go into a tailspin and the Panthers all but win-out, there is minimal chance of seeing Carolina back in the playoffs. Ron Rivera is winless in the division this year, giving them no advantage in the tiebreakers. Now they play for pride and jobs.</p>. 1-5. Previous: . Carolina Panthers. 29. team