Entering Week 13 play the Carolina Panthers are on the outside looking in at the playoffs for the first time all season. Three consecutive losses have turned a promising season into one that can still be salvaged, enjoyed even, but a win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is required.
A second victory over their divisional opponent would push the Panthers up to 7-5 and depending on the results of a few critical games this week could put them back into the playoff picture.
Five games remain, plenty of time for teams to make a push or spiral out of contention.