Carolina Panthers must win 2 of their last 4 games
This might seem highly unlikely given the way things are currently unfolding for the Carolina Panthers. But if they can somehow win two of their remaining four games, it could build enough momentum to be a little optimistic for hopes moving forward.
That’s going to be easier said than done, obviously.
Road games at the Buffalo Bills, New Orleans Saints, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers don’t exactly scream success, with their final home game coming against Tom Brady and the Bucs – the second time they play them down the stretch.
Perhaps the Saints game is winnable. They are dealing with some injuries and have undergone some real complications at the quarterback position since Drew Brees’ retirement and Jameis Winston going down with a serious knee injury.
Carolina’s game against Tampa Bay might also be the last time the home crowd gets to see Cam Newton starting for the franchise. Although his future beyond the current campaign still appears to be hanging in the balance and could go either way.
This might provide enough in the way of atmosphere to spur the team on in the face of a team that has significant hopes of retaining the Vince Lombardi Trophy in 2021.
Going .500 between now and the end of the campaign leaves the Panthers at 7-10, which looks a whole lot better than 5-12 and represents a slight improvement on the previous season (5-11).
Some may not like it, but that might be all Matt Rhule needs to get a third season.