Dan Orlovsky just affirmed what Panthers' critics refuse to believe

Dan Orlovsky | Greg Fiume/GettyImagesThe Carolina Panthers don't get much national attention. They reside in a small market, and this squad has been more accustomed to being among the also-rans in recent years. But after generating some positive momentum, the narrative is starting to change.

Carolina finds itself half a game behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the NFC South lead with six games remaining. Everyone has bought into head coach Dave Canales' culture shift. The methodical roster construction from general manager Dan Morgan provided the stability sorely lacking under previous regimes. They might not be a Super Bowl challenger just yet, but the Panthers are on the correct trajectory…