NFL.com
Panthers rank: 16th (8th in NFC)
Previous rank: 23rd
NFC South: Falcons 4th, Buccaneers 10th, Panthers 16th, Saints 25th
This week's opponent: Saints 25th
Beyond the numbers: Elliot Harrison is impressed with Carolina's defense. Losing Greg Olsen certainly doesn't help the Panthers' offense, but the defense is what is winning the team games.
ESPN.com
Panthers rank: 13th (7th in NFC)
Previous rank: 11th
NFC South: Falcons 1st, Buccaneers 11th, Panthers 13th Saints 23rd
This week's opponent: Saints 23rd
Beyond the numbers: The ESPN staff isn't worried about Cam Newton and the offense.