Here's where the Panthers stand in various power rankings following their Week 9 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
NFL.com
Panthers rank: 11th (7th in NFC)
Previous rank: 13th
NFC South: Saints 5th, Panthers 11th, Falcons 19th, Buccaneers 29th
This week's opponent: Dolphins 28th
Beyond the numbers: Elliot Harrison says the Panthers have quietly strung together two wins on the strength of its defense and just enough offense. Cam Newton made a difference with 86 yards rushing and one touchdown on nine carries, despite not compiling impressive passing statistics.Â
ESPN.com
Panthers rank: 11th (7th in NFC)
Previous rank: 12th
NFC South: Saints 9th, Panthers 11th, Falcons 17th, Buccaneers 28th
This week's opponent:Â Dolphins 26th
Beyond the numbers: Despite all of the drama surrounding Newton, the Panthers are rising in the rankings. The quarterback's passing hasn't been pretty with 10 touchdowns to 11 interceptions, but his running game has added an element to the offense.Â
CBS Sports
Panthers rank: 9th (6th in NFC)
Previous rank: 13th
NFC South: Saints 5th, Panthers 9th, Falcons 13th, Buccaneers 29th
This week's opponent: Dolphins 22nd
Beyond the numbers: Pete Prisco says Cam Newton has re-emerged as a playmaker. Next up is a date with Miami on Monday Night Football.
Yahoo Sports
Panthers rank: 10th (7th in NFC)
Previous rank: 10th
NFC South: Saints 4th, Panthers 10th, Panthers 11th, Buccaneers 29th
This week's opponent: Dolphins 24th
Beyond the numbers: Frank Schwab points out that's rare for a team to win a game when only three players catch passes. Devin Funchess, Christian McCaffrey and Curtis Samuel accounted for all 13 receptions from Newton. The passing game didn't look great without Kelvin Benjamin, but Carolina won regardless.
Bleacher Report
Panthers rank: 8th (6th in NFC)Â
Previous rank: 9th
NFC South: Saints 3rd, Panthers 8th, Falcons 16th, Buccaneers 29th
This week's opponent: Dolphins 22nd
Beyond the numbers: Chris Simms believes the Panthers are still figuring out who they are, but are winning in the process. However, Carolina has proven they can win with sound defense, power rushing and a few big plays from Newton.Â
View the top photos from Panthers vs. Falcons by team photographer Melissa Melvin-Rodriguez and second shooters Andrew Dye and Jamey Price.