One of the biggest positives behind the Carolina Panthers' resurgence over the last five games was their run defense. Ejiro Evero's unit conceded more than 3,000 yards on the ground in 2024, but the enhancements made this offseason have made a substantial difference at the best possible time.
Unfortunately, this forgotten weakness resurfaced in Carolina's defining moment.
The Panthers were brimming with confidence heading into their Week 8 contest against the Buffalo Bills. They'd won their last three games, and the AFC East club lost two straight before their bye week. It wasn't going to be easy, especially without quarterback Bryce Young, but Dave Canales' squad wasn't without a chance if every phase came to play.