NFL Power Rankings: Carolina Panthers at a standstill

NFL Power Rankings: Panthers at a standstill

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 17: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers reacts after a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers in the third quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 17, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NC – OCTOBER 12: Julius Peppers #90 of the Carolina Panthers prepares to rush against the Philadelphia Eagles in the first quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on October 12, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

ESPN – No. 8 (-1)

The Panthers beat a Green Bay team hampered by the loss of Aaron Rodgers for a majority of the year. His futile return has Carolina poised to clinch a playoff berth with just one more win. Despite the win, the Panthers dropped in this week’s examination of veteran Pro Bowl candidates.

"Julius Peppers (9): When the Panthers brought back Peppers, they were likely expecting some solid part-time work. Instead, Peppers could be heading to his 10th Pro Bowl, as he has become the fifth player in history with 10.0 sacks at age 37 or older."

Unfortunately, neither Julius Peppers or Mario Addison, who each have 10 sacks for the season, made the Pro Bowl as linebacker Luke Kuechly was the team’s only representative.

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