Dave Canales’s well-rested team were outright leaders of the NFC South with a 7-6 record entering Sunday’s clash with the Saints at the Superdome. When Dave Canales’s team last took the field, they were putting the finishing touches on a 31-28 upset of the formidable Los Angeles Rams at Charlotte in Week 13.

The Panthers still can win the NFC South, but the path to do that is much more difficult than if they'd beaten the Saints.

Charlie Smyth kicked a 47-yard field goal late in regulation, lifting the Saints to a 20-17 comeback victory over the playoff-hopeful Carolina Panthers.

Carolina safety Lathan Ransom was penalized 15 yards for hitting Saints QB Tyler Shough in final seconds of Sunday’s 20-17 New Orleans win.

This article was originally published on www.si.com/nfl/panthers/onsi as Jalen Coker makes bold claim about the Carolina Panthers and their identity. If the Carolina Panthers can win their next two games, they'll win the NFC South and go to the playoffs.

How did the Saints upset the Panthers in Week 15's final seconds? By leaning on a young quarterback who continues to deliver when it matters most.

NFL - Carolina Panthers vs. New Orleans Saints - 12/14/2025 Charlie Smyth National Football League New Orleans Saints Top Plays

Tyler Shough emerged from the medical blue tent late in Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers with his helmet in hand. The quarterback — and the New Orleans Saints —