NFL Power Rankings: Steelers climbing the ladder heading into Week 6

17. Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers started the 2021 season out 3-0, but I predicted that their success wouldn’t last. Though their defense looks legit, Sam Darnold seems to be referring back to his old ways with some costly mistakes that have taken them out of games.

Since starting off as one of the hottest teams, Carolina has now lost two straight games and are starting to look more like the team that everyone predicted they would be. After surrendering 36 points to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 4, they lost a game they need to win on their schedule at home against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Fortunately, the Panthers have one of the easiest schedules in the NFL over the next six weeks and could still come away with an impressive record by the end of the season. How they perform against shakey competition should tell us everything we need to know about their legitimate chances of competing if they are able to earn a playoff spot.

With an average offense and a stout defense that is surrendering just 17.4 points per game, the Panthers will have a chance to be just good enough this year, and they could climb in the rankings with some better offensive performances.