NFC South Predictions: Carolina Panthers Take Turn at Top

This is the last in a series of articles previewing the NFL season. Today we will be featuring the NFC South.

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Rosters and depth charts are up to date and as accurate as possible as of June 8, 2008. A schedule of upcoming NFL preview content, including links to other previews that have already been posted, is located here. 

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Carolina Panthers (10-6)

Since the Panthers last won this division in 2003, the other three teams have finished on top. According to the rotation, 2007 should have been the Panthers' year, but injuries kept Carolina from finishing above .500. This is a do-or-die year. We are going with the "do." The Panthers average 25.7 points per game (#7 in the NFL) and allow 20.5 points (#7) against a schedule featuring just five games against 2007 playoff teams.

Absolute Record: 13-3

Most Significant Newcomer: Jonathan Stewart, RB - Just when DeAngelo Williams thought he would get his chance to be the man, Carolina drafted a bigger, stronger, NFL-ready version of him in the first round. Williams is probably capable of fulfilling the starting role for an NFL team, but he will be great again in the two-back system. Stewart is a monster who can even catch the ball and return kicks if needed. The only real concern with him is a foot injury, yet the Panthers' doctor performed his surgery. Carolina added some great pieces to its defense, yet we are going with the dynamic rookie who we already picked as the league's best for 2008.

Biggest Strength: The Schedule - We could say it about every team in this division for 2008. They all get to play the Bears, Chiefs, Lions and Raiders, not to mention that three of them play the Falcons twice. The middle of this schedule - Week 4 through Week 15 - should allow this team to get on a big roll. They will cut their teeth at San Diego and at Minnesota, but then it is smooth sailing until a trip to face the Giants. By then, they could easily be 12-2 and may not even need that game.

Most Exploitable Weakness: Passing Game - This is an injury concern far more than a talent concern. Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith and new #2 wide receiver D.J. Hackett all have histories of missing games or playing at far less than 100%. When healthy and at the peaks these players have shown over the years, this may actually be a strength. It's just too much of a concern to gloss over.

Possible Fantasy Sleeper: Gary Barnidge, TE - Usually when Mel Kiper Jr. loves a guy, we stay away from him. Too much draft analysis is based on "measureables" (40-yard dash time, bench press, height, weight, etc.) when collegiate productivity (with strength of opponent considered) should be much more of a factor. Barnidge is one of those ultra-productive college players. He is a tall target with great hands who presents an upgrade over Jeff King in his ability to stretch the middle of the field and even get yards after the catch.

Closest Game: @ Minnesota (Week 3) - This is one of those "cut your teeth" games, but Carolina still has a shot of winning. After this, the games don't really get close.

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