The Carolina Panthers have yet to prove themselves as contenders or pretenders in the NFC playoff picture. I know the folks in Carolina are pumped to finally be over .500, but let’s hold off on calling this team a playoff squad just yet. You see, while the Panthers do have 4 wins their victories have come against teams with a combined record of 5-21. Cam Newton has played like a man among boys of late, but that’s because he’s played the New York Giants, Minnesota Vikings and Tampa Bay Buccaneers — heck, I’d throw a few touchdowns against those guys!
Either way, the rubber is going to hit the road when the calendar flips to November as the Panthers have a few “prove-it” games on the schedule. The Panthers will go on the road to face the San Francisco 49ers in Week 9, which is going to be a big opportunity for Ron Rivera‘s club to prove itself as an elite team. After that, the Panthers play host to the New England Patriots — Tom Brady vs. Newton? Talk about a thriller.
Related: Rant Off: Peyton Manning vs. Andrew Luck
So, hats of to Carolina for winning games it should, but let’s wait and see if this young and talented squad is ready to make the leap from average to really good.
Related:
Are the Panthers Contenders or Pretenders?
Playoffs Not a Possibility for Panthers Despite Impressive Win
Panthers’ Easy Schedule Has Ron Rivera Getting Too Much Credit
