Carolina Panthers chance at the playoffs drops significantly
Three straight losses obviously hurt but just how bad are things for the Carolina Panthers?
The Carolina Panthers entered 2018 with a renewed sense of urgency. Under new ownership and equipped with fresh faces in every facet – offense, defense and special teams, the Panthers hope for a return to the playoffs seemed legitimate.
Carolina rebounded after an early loss to divisional rival Atlanta, winning five of their next six for a 6-2 record at the midpoint of the season. The New Orleans Saints were running off with the NFC South division, not losing since the opener, but the Panthers were in prime position to secure a wildcard playoff berth.
Then came an embarrassing loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on national television to kick off Week 10 on a Thursday night and the team hasn’t recovered. Three consecutive losses now have Carolina on the outside looking in with just five games remaining – two of which come against the Saints.
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Even after losing to both Pittsburgh and Detroit, the Panthers maintained a 46.8-percent chance at the playoffs. At the time, all four losses took place away from Bank of America Stadium and a return home against the Seattle Seahawks offered a welcome boost in the win column, in addition to helping their chances at the post season.
Someone just forgot to tell Seattle.
Playing for their own opportunity and being in a similar situation, with the Los Angeles Rams leading the NFC West, the Seahawks took a major step in punching their ticket with a month to play. After beating Carolina 30-27 this past Sunday, playoff chances for the Panthers dropped to just 31-percent.
Seattle has games against the Vikings, Chiefs, Cardinals and two with San Francisco remaining. Their own chance jumped to 75-percent with the win in Charlotte and should both teams be tied when the season concludes, the Seahawks now have an edge.
Next. Best, Worst Case Scenarios Over Final Month. dark
For the Panthers to remain in the conversation they must win at Tampa Bay this week. If not, the talk of turnover, retirement and mock drafts can officially begin.