NFL.com
Panthers rank: 13th (6th in NFC)
Previous rank: 16th
NFC South: Saints 8th, Panthers 13th, Falcons 15th, Buccaneers 28th
This week's opponent: Falcons 15th
Beyond the numbers: Elliot Harrison illustrates the Panthers' season as peaks-and-valleys. The journey continues, except this week Carolina controlled NFC South rival Tampa Bay. Cornerback James Bradberry shut down wide receiver Mike Evans when lined up on his side and the defense made the Buccaneers look silly on third down.
ESPN.com
Panthers rank: 12th (7th in NFC)
Previous rank: 19th
NFC South: Saints 9th, Panthers 12th, Falcons 13th, Buccaneers 24th
This week's opponent: Falcons 13th
Beyond the numbers: The ESPN staff points out that Newton takes a lot of the blame for the Panthers' struggles, but it's the running game that's the most worrisome.