One year ago the Carolina Panthers appeared poised to contend with the New Orleans Saints in the NFC South, even after being swept in three games during the previous season. Throughout preseason play quarterback Cam Newton was limited but once Week 1 arrived the entire team hit the ground running.
An early loss to divisional rival Atlanta hurt but by midseason Carolina was 6-2 and firmly in the driver’s seat. Four divisional games remained, including two against New Orleans and if the Panthers held their momentum then an exciting stretch run through the second half of the schedule was on deck.