NFL Power Rankings, Week 8: Eagles collapse in fourth quarter during loss to Panthers

7. Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers are the perfect example of how a game is never over until the clock strikes zero since Ron Rivera’s team went the first three quarters without scoring a single point to going on to defeat the Eagles on the road 21-17. Scoring three touchdowns on the team’s final three drives was quite impressive for the Panthers, and after a tough loss to the Washington Redskins the week before, this was the ultimate confidence booster to improve to 4-2.

Once again, Cam Newton led Carolina in both rushing and receiving, as the former MVP deserves all of the credit in the world for leading his team when needed the most to earn the shocking win on the road. Whether it was finding Torrey Smith on that big play during fourth down or finding Greg Olsen for the go-ahead score with just over a minute remaining in regular season, Newton showed once again why he’s one of the best at what he does.

Tough wins like this on the road will put Carolina in much better position for the NFC playoff race down the road, as early signs point to this team having what it takes to extend their season for a second year in a row come January. But before jumping that far ahead, the Panthers will be focused on their next matchup for Sunday in what should be another tough battle against the Baltimore Ravens.