The Carolina Panthers are typically devoid of hope and expectation entering their bye week. That isn't the case this time around.
Head coach Dave Canales' squad is not the finished article by any stretch of the imagination. There have been several ups and downs during another rollercoaster campaign. Still, an incredible victory over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13 gave everyone a massive lift at the perfect time.
Carolina is 7-6 with four games remaining. Everything is still in front of them, although they would likely need to win three more down the stretch to clinch the NFC South crown.