Mon Dec 15 00:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
Panthers Focused on Saints Despite Playoff Hopes Boost
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Carolina Panthers are maintaining a laser focus on their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints, despite the Atlanta Falcons’ late-game victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday significantly improving their playoff chances. As Panthers defensive end Derrick Brown discusses the playoff hunt on The Rich Eisen Show, Head Coach Dave Canales insists the team is approaching Sunday’s game with the same “championship opportunity” mindset they’ve had all season.
A victory over the Saints coupled with a subsequent win against the Buccaneers would clinch the NFC South for Carolina for the first time since 2017. However, the Panthers are wary of looking past New Orleans, who upset them last month.
The team is emphasizing “mature energy” and a day-by-day approach. In positive news, Carolina will be at full strength for the first time in months, with the return of Pro Bowl cornerback Jaycee Horn from the concussion protocol. Horn, confident in the team’s potential, emphasized the need to “go 1-0 every week.” The Panthers are determined to stay grounded and concentrate on executing against the Saints.
First Piper 