Fortunes change fast in the NFL. These 2019 Carolina Panthers are a living reminder of that. A five-game losing streak has put them in jeopardy of finishing the season in the NFC South cellar.

Here’s a review of what happened around the division in Week 14.

Saints (10-3) lost to 49ers (11-2), 48-46

Nobody expected a shootout in this one, but nobody’s going to complain, either. San Francisco narrowly won over New Orleans in the best game of the year so far, despite five touchdown passes from Drew Brees. The Saints’ inability to stop the Niners’ run game was key – they allowed 162 rushing yards on just 24 carries – an average of 6.8 yards per run. It’s entirely possible we will see a rematch in the NFC Championship game. The Saints will try to rebound at home against the Colts in Week 15.

Buccaneers (6-7) beat Colts (6-7), 38-35

The Bucs did their best to blow this one, committing four turnovers and losing over 100 yards on penalties. They came out on top on the strength of 456 passing yards and four touchdowns from Jameis Winston. Tampa also has seen tight end O.J. Howard finally come to life over the last two weeks. He caught four of five targets for 73 yards against Indy. Rookie linebacker Devin White came through with another critical game-changing play, offering more evidence that he’s going to be a very special player. Tampa should be able to keep the good vibes going against Detroit.

Panthers (5-8) lost to Falcons (4-9), 40-20

Atlanta just seems to have Carolina’s number. The players and the venues change, but the results are the same. The Falcons have won five in a row in this rivalry and eight of the last nine meetings. What’s most concerning for the Panthers is their ongoing failure to stop big plays. Whoever the next full-time head coach is will have to consider drastic measures to stop the bleeding in this area. It’s too early to completely write off Perry Fewell, but this did not help his case. Next up, Seattle.

Falcons (4-9) beat Panthers (5-8), 40-20

The Falcons came into this week as one of the worst rushing teams in the league. Facing the Panthers was just the medicine their run game needed – Devonta Freeman had his best game of the season and Brian Hill did just as much damage. Dirk Koetter obviously has figured Carolina’s defense out. The question is if he’ll have any success against another NFL team. Don’t expect it to happen this week, though. The 49ers are next on their schedule.

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