The Carolina Panthers (6-8) aren’t mathematically eliminated from the playoffs but with only two games remaining they need a ton of help. Wins against the Falcons and Saints are a must, coupled with consecutive losses for Minnesota, Washington and a Houston victory over Philadelphia.
A lot to ask for considering Carolina has finally elected to shut down quarterback Cam Newton for the remainder of the season. Backup Taylor Heinicke is expected to get his first NFL start against the divisional rival Falcons on Sunday.
Atlanta, no stranger to injuries themselves, lost five consecutive games until a win over Arizona last week.