Panthers: Playoffs return justifiable in 2018

A Carolina Panthers return to the playoffs in 2018 is likely for a number of reasons…

The Carolina Panthers made the playoffs three consecutive seasons from 2013-2015 but have otherwise never enjoyed back-to-back trips to the postseason. Even in 2014, the middle year of their only streak Carolina relied on a paltry 7-8-1 record to win a weak division and ensure the franchise’s first consecutive playoff trips.

A similar record in 2018 would likely leave the Panthers looking up from the bottom of what is expected to be a highly competitive NFC South division. After sending three teams (Atlanta, Carolina and New Orleans) to the playoffs last year, expectations for this division are high as each team seemingly improved their rosters from one year ago.

Winning more than eight games would mean this year’s team also accomplished another first in franchise history as Carolina has never had two winning seasons in a row. While historically, coach Ron Rivera and the Panthers have struggled following a successful season, there is reason to believe this year’s group can change the course of fate for the franchise.

Continue to view a few of the reasons why this Panthers team will return to the playoffs at the conclusion of the 2018 season.