Carolina Panthers crack top-10 in Week 2 Power Rankings

CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 09: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers celebrates a first down against the Dallas Cowboys in the first quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NC – SEPTEMBER 09: Greg Olsen #88 of the Carolina Panthers takes the field against the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium on September 9, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

NFL.com – No. 8 (+3)

The highest ranking this week for Carolina came courtesy of Elliot Harrison at NFL.com, they still remain behind Atlanta – who lost to Philadelphia on Thursday night. Given a few extra days to prepare the Falcons will be ready for the Panthers to open Mercedes-Benz Stadium this season.

"Downside on Sunday: Daryl Williams going down and Greg Olsen re-fracturing his foot, two big setbacks which account for Ron Rivera’s squad not being higher up on this pecking order. It’s your time to shine, Ian Thomas."

Both teams suffered significant injuries last week losing starters in key positions. Carolina will need to replace tight end Greg Olsen and tackle Daryl Williams while Atlanta is searching for someone to fill the roles vacated by Deion Jones (LB) and Keanu Neal (S).

Whichever team gets the better production from their replacements may be the key to a win on Sunday.

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