Can Carolina Panthers go 16-0? A look at the remaining opponents
The remaining opponents for the Carolina Panthers (11-0) as they chase a 16-0 regular season:
Dec. 6 at New Orleans
Win probability: 75 percent
The Saints (4-6) allowed an average of 43.3 points over their past three games, a horrific stretch that got defensive coordinator Rob Ryan fired during the bye week. Former Oakland coach Dennis Allen takes over the league’s worst defense, which is allowing 424 yards a game. The Panthers didn’t have to face Drew Brees in the first meeting. But even a healthy Brees isn’t enough to overcome the Saints defense’s many shortcomings.
Dec. 13 vs. Atlanta
Win probability: 72 percent
Atlanta (6-4) has dropped four of its past five after a 5-0 start. Matt Ryan has played poorly, leading to speculation that he’s injured. Ryan and coach Dan Quinn insist Ryan is healthy. But the Falcons could take another loss this weekend against the surging Vikings.
Dec. 20 at New York Giants
Win probability: 62 percent
The Giants (5-5) are the team to beat in the NFC East, which – after the Eagles and Cowboys were thrashed on Thanksgiving – has overtaken the AFC South as the worst division in football. But the Giants have a Manning behind center and Odell Beckham at wideout. It will be cold in the Meadowlands, but the Panthers’ tough running game and physical defense make them well equipped to handle the elements.
Dec. 27 at Atlanta
Win probability: 67 percent
The Panthers have clinched the NFC South at the Georgia Dome each of the past two seasons, but figure to have the division wrapped up before Christmas weekend this year. If the Falcons continue their freefall, it will seem like a home game with thousands of Carolina fans making the drive down I-85.
Jan. 2 vs. Tampa Bay
Win probability: 69 percent
Jameis Winston is coming off a five-touchdown game against Philadelphia and the Bucs (5-5) have climbed to .500 with wins in three of their past four games. But the storyline will be whether the Panthers, if still undefeated, will play their starters or rest Cam Newton and others to prepare for the playoffs.
This story was originally published November 27, 2015 at 5:25 PM with the headline "Can Carolina Panthers go 16-0? A look at the remaining opponents."