Carolina-Indianapolis: Colts Fly Under Radar, Panthers' Strength Must Be Proven

As we progress towards the close of this season, one team flies silently under the radar, while another is being constantly underestimated.  The Indianapolis Colts (10-4) have won their last seven games, and a date with the struggling Jacksonville Jaguars improves their chances vastly. 

Although the Jaguars defeated them earlier in the season, the Jaguars have apparently lost their spunk, as the Colts seem to have gained theirs. Even with a final game against the once solid Tennessee Titans, I pick the Colts to end the season 12-4, and make a trip to the playoffs.

This Sunday night will prove who's best in the NFC.  As the Carolina Panthers take on the NY Giants, who have just come off of two divisional losses, I take the Panthers.  They have had many good games starting from the beginning of the season (Remember Week One against the Chargers?), a few losses including the devastating loss to Tampa Bay during Week Six, yet they still prove to be determined as ever to succeed. 

Their two RB's Williams and Stewart, have proven true against defenses such as Tampa Bay's who had only allowed on rushing touchdown before their Monday Night Showdown, and who can possibly forget about four time Pro Bowler Steve Smith? 

Their defense is on point, with Julius Peppers returning to his old form, and leading the team with 12.5 sacks, and one could never forget about the most reliable (and original) Panther, John Kasay, who has only missed one field goal so far this season.

I say the Panthers, who are 8-0 at home, have a chance Sunday against a Giants offense that is missing Burress and possibly Jacobs thus giving them the number one spot in the NFC.  An easy win in New Orleans, and they have home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Coach Fox may have found that balance he's been looking for in the past two seasons.