NFL Power Rankings: Panthers rise entering Week 17

NFL.com – No. 7 (+1)

NFL analyst Elliot Harrison followed suit, bumping Carolina up one place from last week. In his latest edition the focus was on a much needed game winning drive and the ability to win even with a subpar performance.

"Scary win for the Panthers, who almost sleepwalked their way into losing to the Bucs — and letting an opportunity to win the NFC South slip away — on their home field. Case in point: With the Panthers down four points, a furious Julius Peppers pass rush induced a holding call on Tampa Bay in the Bucs’ end zone, which would have meant two points and possession to Carolina. But, but, Star Lotulelei shoved a guy as the play was ending, so offsetting penalties meant the safety didn’t count. Oy. Then Jameis Winston converted on third-and-a-mile. Just when you thought it wasn’t the Panthers’ day, Tampa kicker Patrick Murray missed another long-range kick (like last week). Cam Newton and the other 10 guys on Carolina’s offense put together a drive to win the game, fumble and all. That’s football."

The defense forced three turnovers but also surrendered multiple big plays to Tampa Bay. Fortunately they were able to keep the Buccaneers from getting into the end zone on multiple red zone trips before a missed field goal eventually sparked an opportunity for the game winning drive.