Charlotte, N.C., December 13, 2025
The Carolina Panthers have moved to the top of the NFC South division with a 7-6 record after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ recent loss. With a string of victories under their belt, the Panthers are vying for their first playoff appearance since 2017. Despite quarterback Bryce Young’s inconsistent performance, the team is optimistic as they prepare to face the struggling New Orleans Saints. Maintaining their winning momentum will be critical as they aim for the NFC South title and an automatic playoff berth.
Charlotte, N.C. – The Carolina Panthers have taken a significant step toward securing a playoff berth, now leading the NFC South division after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ narrow 29-28 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday Night Football. This outcome elevates the Panthers to a 7-6 record, placing them a game ahead of the Buccaneers, who have now lost five of their last six games after starting the season 6-2. With the division winner guaranteed an automatic playoff spot, the Panthers are well-positioned to clinch their first postseason appearance since 2017 and potentially their first NFC South title since 2015, the year they advanced to the Super Bowl.
The Panthers’ recent performance has been promising. In their most recent game, they achieved a 16-13 victory over the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, marking their fourth consecutive win. This victory has bolstered their confidence as they prepare to host the New Orleans Saints, who currently hold a 1-8 record, in their upcoming matchup. Maintaining this momentum is crucial for the Panthers as they aim to secure a playoff spot.
However, challenges remain. The team’s offense, particularly quarterback Bryce Young, has shown inconsistency. In a recent 20-9 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, Young completed only 18 of 29 passes for 169 yards, including two interceptions. This performance underscores the need for improved offensive execution as the Panthers approach the final stretch of the regular season.
Looking ahead, the Panthers’ schedule includes critical games against division rivals, including a rematch with the Buccaneers. These upcoming matchups will be pivotal in determining the Panthers’ playoff prospects and their potential to clinch the NFC South division title.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current standing of the Carolina Panthers?
The Carolina Panthers lead the NFC South division with a 7-6 record, following the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ 29-28 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday Night Football.
When was the last time the Panthers made the playoffs?
The Panthers’ most recent playoff appearance was in 2017. They are aiming to secure their first postseason spot since then.
Who is the Panthers’ next opponent?
The Panthers are set to host the New Orleans Saints, who currently have a 1-8 record, in their upcoming game.
What challenges is the Panthers’ offense facing?
Quarterback Bryce Young has shown inconsistency, notably in a recent 20-9 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, where he completed only 18 of 29 passes for 169 yards and two interceptions.
What is at stake for the Panthers in the remaining games?
Securing victories in upcoming games, especially against division rivals like the Buccaneers, is crucial for the Panthers to clinch the NFC South division title and earn an automatic playoff berth.
Key Features of the Carolina Panthers’ Playoff Push
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Record | 7-6, leading the NFC South division |
| Recent Performance | Achieved a 16-13 victory over the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field |
| Upcoming Opponent | Hosting the New Orleans Saints, who have a 1-8 record |
| Offensive Challenges | Inconsistency in quarterback Bryce Young’s performance, including a 20-9 loss to the San Francisco 49ers |
| Playoff Implications | Securing victories, especially against division rivals like the Buccaneers, is crucial for clinching the NFC South division title and earning an automatic playoff berth |
Now Happening on X
- @TBradleyNC (December 6, 2025, 10:57 AM) Recap of yesterday in Charlotte: light rail stabbing, stabbing near Eastway Dr, man fired shots at police, and a shooting with a critically injured victim; calls for National Guard deployment due to rising violence. View on X
- @ElaineS50694570 (December 7, 2025, 3:42 PM) Mark Harris urges National Guard deployment in Charlotte after a train stabbing by a twice-deported immigrant, citing a 300-officer police shortage and violent crime rates exceeding Chicago’s. View on X
- @ElaineS50694570 (December 7, 2025, 3:42 PM) Rep. Mark Harris criticizes local Democratic leaders for inaction on crime in Charlotte, where violent crime rates hit 733 per 100k, surpassing Chicago, following a light rail stabbing by an immigrant. View on X
- @wbtradio (December 9, 2025, 6:59 PM) Inside Charlotte’s Safety Concerns and the 2026 Battle Ahead, highlighting ongoing public safety issues and political battles in the city. View on X
- @WFAE (December 9, 2025, 9:30 AM) NewsWorthy update: Man accused in Charlotte light rail stabbing held without bond, alongside other local developments in school performance and town management. View on X
- @lawyer4laws (December 9, 2025, 2:19 PM) Charlotte City Council approves PR firm to promote public transit safety, but no action on crime fighting or harsher sentencing to protect the public. View on X
- @WFAE (December 10, 2025, 9:30 AM) NewsWorthy: Charlotte City Council approves $3.4 million transit marketing contract, with updates on utility mergers and school board decisions. View on X
- @andylancaster (December 11, 2025, 12:33 AM) Discussion on Charlotte’s issues under current mayor, retired police chief, non-cooperative sheriff, growing homelessness, and frequent stabbings and shootings. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charlotte Authorities Urgently Search for Missing Mother
Monroe Police Investigate Shooting into Occupied Home
Family Seeks Community Support in Finding Missing Mother
Family Seeks Help in Locating Missing Mother in Charlotte
Family Seeks Information on Missing Mother in Charlotte
Charlotte Mother Frezja Baker Missing
Family Seeks Public’s Help in Finding Missing Mother
Family in Charlotte Seeks Help for Missing Mother
Record North Carolina Train Ridership Signals Growing Preference
Wells Fargo Executive Makes Waves with $9 Million Mansion Purchase
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
