NFL Power Rankings: Panthers at a standstill

NFL.com – No. 8 (No Change)

NFL analyst Elliot Harrison left Carolina alone in this week’s rankings. In his latest edition the focus was on an opportunistic defense and Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ respect for Peppers.

"Huge win for the Panthers on Sunday, on the strength of an opportunistic defense that made Aaron Rodgers look like a quarterback who’s been out of the lineup for two months. Well, maybe Rodgers had been absent for weeks, yet he was still uncharacteristically off on a few throws, partially because of rust and partially because of solid play on the back five by Carolina. Then there was the spot pressure when it was needed most, highlighted by Julius Peppers capturing Rodgers late in the fourth quarter, when Green Bay was threatening in Panthers territory. Peppers, whose age (37) is only surpassed by his career sack total (153.5), has produced 10 sacks in this, his 16th NFL season. Rodgers even mentioned after the game that the man who planted him will be a first-ballot Hall of Famer. #Respect"

The defensive secondary, who didn’t get an interception until Week 8 or have one from a cornerback until last week, now has five in their last two games. If their production continues, expect the wins to keep piling up for Carolina.