NFL Power Rankings: Week 17
By Keith Rivas
Carolina Panthers (14-1)
Sep 27, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers cornerback Josh Norman (24) celebrates after intercepting a pass in the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Bank of America Stadium. Carolina defeated the Saints 27-22. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
I understand that putting the Carolina Panthers at the three spot will upset, confuse, and possibly infuriate some people.
How can I put the team that was undefeated until this past Sunday any lower than second?
It’s simple — they’re the third best team.
The pesky Atlanta Falcons were able to break through Carolina’s seemingly impenetrable defense.
Of all teams, it was surprising that the Falcons did what the rest of the league has been trying to do for months now. The Miami Dolphins of 1972 surely had a great night on Sunday, as they were finally able to breathe and pop their champagne to celebrate the only perfect season in NFL history.
Carolina could still lose the top seed in the NFC despite going 14-0 to start the year — that’s crazy.
All it’ll take is a win by the Cardinals (not far-fetched) and a loss by the Panthers (possibly against Tampa Bay).
Josh Norman and Cam Newton can take this team to new heights, but like the Patriots, it may end up being their own pride that hurts them the most.
Next: No. 2