A lot would have to go wrong for the Carolina Panthers to miss the playoffs in 2025. But if they lose to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Atlanta Falcons are defeated by the New Orleans Saints, that's precisely what will happen.
The Panthers are striving to ensure that doesn't happen. Focus turned quickly to this weekend's crunch clash, and confidence remains high that this upstart group can get over the hump. There is a lot to play for, and there isn't just knockout football at stake this weekend.
If Carolina capitulates, attention immediately turns to the 2026 offseason.