Two embarrassing losses to divisional rival Atlanta, in the span of four weeks, wasn’t enough to officially push the Carolina Panthers out of a narrowing playoff picture but a Vikings win on Sunday ultimately sealed the deal. Minnesota defeated Detroit, keeping their own team in the hunt while mathematically eliminating Carolina, who is in the midst of a disappointing five game losing streak.
Similar to how last season unfolded, when the Panthers started 6-2 before losing seven straight, Carolina began 5-3 this year but have lost every game since and with Seattle, Indianapolis and New Orleans left on the schedule – the likelihood of getting another victory is slim.