Here's where the Panthers stand in various power rankings following their Week 5 victory over the Detroit Lions.

NFL.com

Panthers rank: 5th (4th in NFC)
Previous rank: 11th

NFC South: Falcons 4th, Panthers 5th, Saints 15th, Buccaneers 19th
This week's opponent: Eagles 2nd

Beyond the numbers: Elliot Harrison says Cam Newton simply overwhelmed the Lions on the field. After creating a ruckus during the week, he delivered some inspiring play.

ESPN.com

Panthers rank: 6th (4th in NFC)
Previous rank: 13th

NFC South: Falcons 3rd, Panthers 6th, Buccaneers 19th, Saints 22nd
This week's opponent: Eagles 4th

Beyond the numbers: The ESPN staff points out that Newton just threw for 300 yards and three touchdowns in consecutive games for the first time in his career. He's completing 68 percent of his passes this season and has the Panthers with the fourth-best chances of making the playoffs in the NFC.

CBSSports.com

Panthers rank: 6th (4th in NFC)
Previous rank: 7th

NFC South: Falcons 4th, Panthers 6th, Saints 17th, Buccaneers 19th
This week's opponent: Eagles 3rd

Beyond the numbers: Simply put, Pete Prisco says Newton is back to playing like his 2015 MVP self. However, he faces a good Eagles team this week.

Yahoo Sports

Panthers rank: 5th (4th in NFC)
Previous rank: 8th

NFC South: Falcons 3rd, Panthers 5th, Saints 19th, Buccaneers 20th
This week's opponent: Eagles 4th

Beyond the numbers: Frank Schwab is impressed with Newton in the last two games. If those are the type of performances he produces going forward, the Panthers are a very dangerous team.

Bleacher Report

Panthers rank: 5th (3rd in NFC) 
Previous rank: 11th

NFC South: Falcons 3rd, Panthers 5th, Saints 13th, Buccaneers 20th
This week's opponent: Eagles 8th

Beyond the numbers: Maurice Moton says the Panthers look like a complete team since their 2015 Super Bowl run. Devin Funchess has impressed of late and Newton looks sharp under center without tight end Greg Olsen. 

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