As left tackle Ikem Ekwonu said, fans are more used to looking further forward at this stage of the campaign. But for the first time in years, the Carolina Panthers have a legitimate shot to book their place in the postseason.
That's no guarantee by any stretch, but they've got a shot. The Panthers have to win three of their four remaining games to accomplish this feat, but head coach Dave Canales' squad is brimming with confidence. Even so, general manager Dan Morgan will already be planning for what promises to be another crucial offseason for the franchise.