The Panthers recorded a sack and no takeaways in the 17-10 loss to the Titans in Week 12.

Analysis: The Panthers have held three of their last five opponents to fewer than 18 points, yet they still rank 30th in the league with 26.5 points allowed per game. For fantasy purposes, their upside is limited, as they rank last in the league with seven turnovers and 30th with 18 sacks. Perhaps this unit has some DFS tournament appeal as a cheap option in Week 13 because the Buccaneers have posted just 19.2 points per game (23rd), but it's a high-risk option in redraft formats with limited upside to…read more

The Panthers didn't record a sack or a takeaway in the 33-10 loss to the Cowboys in Week 11.

Analysis: It was yet another discouraging outing by the Panthers, who have given up a whopping 27.5 points per game (31st) this season while forcing a league-low seven turnovers. Their run defense is particularly suspect, and now they'll face RB Derrick Henry and the Titans in Week 12. The Titans have generated a mere 16.8 points per game (27th), but they've protected the ball well (12 turnovers). As a result, it's tough to get excited about Panthers D/ST in any format.

The Panthers didn't record a sack or a takeaway but they did return a punt for a touchdown in the 16-13 loss to the Bears in Week 10.

Analysis: This turned out to be an impressive performance by the Panthers, but they have still given up 26.9 points per game -- the third-most in the league. They have provided minimal upside for fantasy purposes with a league-low seven takeaways, so they need an ideal matchup to be start-worthy. That won't happen this week, as the Cowboys come to town with a whopping 29.9 points per game (second) while giving up just 10 total turnovers (seventh).

The Panthers recorded a fumble recovery and a sack in the 27-13 loss to the Colts in Week 9.

Analysis: The Panthers have given up a whopping 25.8 points per game (29th), and they've allowed at least 20 points in seven of eight games. They have posted just seven takeaways (32nd) and 17 sacks (27th) this season, so their upside is severely capped. Still, there should be a good floor against the Bears, who will start QB Tyson Bagent again. Bagent has a subpar 6.3 YPA and has struggled to push the ball downfield. He's been a boon for opposing defenses with 3:6 TD:INT ratio. There's probably not boom…read more

The Panthers recorded two sacks and a fumble recovery in the 15-13 win over the Texans in Week 8.

Analysis: The Panthers held rookie QB C.J. Stroud to a season-low 140 passing yards. This was the first time this season that the Panthers held an opponent to fewer than 20 points. Still, it's difficult to get excited about this unit because of its lack of upside. The Panthers have recorded just 16 sacks (25th) and six takeaways (29th). The Week 9 matchup versus the Colts is high-risk, high-reward. Over QB Gardner Minshew's last three starts, the Colts have averaged 28.3 points per game and three…read more

The Panthers recorded a pick-six and no sacks in the 42-21 loss to the Dolphins in Week 6.

Analysis: The Panthers picked off backup QB Mike White and returned it for six, marking their fifth turnover of the season (27th in the league). They've also given up 31 points per game (31st). The upcoming matchup versus the Texans could be difficult, even as the Panthers come off the bye. The Texans have produced 22.5 points per game (14th) while giving up a league-low three turnovers. There's always some upside against a rookie quarterback, but the Panthers D/ST certainly loses some upside without S…read more

The Panthers recorded two sacks and no takeaways in the 42-20 loss to the Lions in Week 5.

Analysis: It was another ugly outing by the Panthers, who have now given up 28.8 points per game -- the fifth-most in the league -- while posting just four takeaways. Now, their 14 sacks is a sign of a high-functioning pass rush, but that isn't enough to buoy weekly fantasy production, especially in Week 6 versus the Dolphins. The fastest team in the league, the Dolphins have produced 39.2 points per game. There's no reason to risk it with Panthers D/ST.

The Panthers recorded two sacks and two interceptions, including a pick-six, in the 21-13 loss to the Vikings in Week 4.

Analysis: The Panthers were able to put consistent pressure on QB Kirk Cousins, as they held him to just 14 points (the Vikings defense scored). With an average of three sacks per game, the Panthers rank 10th in the league, although their 25.5 points allowed per game ranks 25th. They draw a difficult Week 5 matchup with limited upside, as the Lions rank eighth with 26.5 points per game while QB Jared Goff has been sacked just five times in four games.

The Panthers recorded two sacks and an interception in the 37-27 loss to the Seahawks in Week 3.

Analysis: The Panthers have given up 27 points per game -- the eighth-most in the league -- while forcing just two turnovers. However, their pass rush has been excellent with 10 sacks, tied for seventh. Their dangerous pass rush has an opportunity to capitalize on QB Kirk Cousins, who has been sacked eight times thus far. That provides plenty of upside, especially because the Vikings have coughed up a league-high nine turnovers. However, Panthers D/ST will carry significant risk because of how WR Justin…read more

The Panthers recorded four sacks and an interception in the 20-17 loss to the Saints in Week 2.

Analysis: The Panthers have now posted eight sacks through two weeks, and their defense has held up well against a pair of decent offenses. Now, they have a tough road matchup versus the Seahawks, who just put up 37 points in the overtime win over the Lions. Seahawks QB Geno Smith has been sacked just three times thus far, so it will be a difficult task. Fantasy managers should understand the risk, but there's certainly some upside in DFS tournaments given the talent of the Panthers defense.

The Panthers recorded four sacks in the 24-10 loss to the Falcons in Week 1.

Analysis: The Panthers' offense struggled and left the defense in precarious positions. The Panthers struggled against the Falcons' run game, too. This defensive unit will face an outright tougher test in Week 2 against the Saints, who featured three high-end wide receivers in the opener. With starting CB Jaycee Horn (hamstring) unlikely to play, the Panthers will have their hands full and should be considered a high-risk option in the divisional bout.

CB Donte Jackson (Achilles) is expected to return for Week 1 versus the Falcons.

Analysis: The Panthers' starting defense will be fully healthy if Jackson is healthy. Their secondary struggled at times last season largely due to injury, so there is some intriguing upside if they stay healthy and the pass rush takes the next step with LB Justin Houston -- who posted 9.5 sacks last year -- in tow. The Falcons are loaded with weapons, but QB Desmond Ridder is far from a sure thing, so keep Panthers D/ST on your radar in deeper leagues or DFS tournaments.

CB Donte Jackson (Achilles) is ramping up his activity during training camp.

Analysis: Jackson appears on track for Week 1, and he'll start opposite Jaycee Horn (ankle), who was cleared at the start of training camp. The Panthers struggled with injuries last year, so having Jackson, Horn and CB Jeremy Chinn ready for the start of the season will have a big impact. However, we will need to see a significant improvement in the pass-rushing department after the team finished 26th last year with 35 sacks.

The Panthers signed S Vonn Bell this offseason.

Analysis: The Panthers could have used some big additions to its defense this offseason, as it ranked 26th last year with 35 sacks and 27th with 17 takeaways. They didn't make any major moves, but it will help that CB Jeremy Chinn will be healthy, at least to start the season. This defense has upside, however, as LB Brian Burns posted 12.5 sacks last year, so it will have streaming appeal, at the very least.

The Panthers recorded three sacks and a fumble recovery in the 30-24 loss to the Buccaneers in Week 17.

Analysis: The Panthers have given up 23-plus points in four straight games, and they'll be without CB Jaycee Horn (wrist) in Week 18. Their upside was limited before their injuries stacked up in the secondary, as they have averaged one turnover per game (26th) while producing 34 sacks (23rd). They'll face the Saints in Week 18 with both teams playing for pride. The Saints are healthy, however, and they have averaged just one giveaway per game over the last eight games. Still, their offense has been…read more

The Panthers recorded two sacks and a fumble recovery in the 37-23 win over the Lions in Week 16.

Analysis: The Panthers have produced just 15 turnovers (29th) and 31 sacks (23rd) through 15 games, and their defense has given up 22.5 points per game (19th). They could struggle in Week 17 with CB Jaycee Horn (ankle) out because CB Donte Jackson (Achilles) has already been ruled out for the year. The Buccaneers' offense has been reckless lately with 11 turnovers over the past four games, and they have averaged just 17.7 points per game (28th) this season. That provides plenty of upside, making Panthers…read more

The Panthers recorded a sack in the 24-16 loss to the Steelers in Week 15.

Analysis: The Panthers failed to force a turnover for the fifth time this season, and they rank 28th with 14 takeaways through 14 games. They're dependent on a good matchup to have fantasy value, and they won't get that in Week 16 against the Lions, who rank fifth in the league with 26.4 points per game while giving up just 14 turnovers (third).

The Panthers recorded three sacks and an interception in the 30-24 win over the Seahawks in Week 14.

Analysis: The Panthers have allowed 15.5 points per game since Week 10, totaling 14 sacks and six takeaways in that four-game stretch. Their opponents in that span were relatively soft, but it did include a close loss to the Ravens. Regardless, the Steelers provide an excellent opportunity, as they rank 27th with 17.5 points per game while coughing up 17 turnovers (19th). Consider Panthers D/ST a viable option in 12-team leagues in the first round of fantasy playoffs.

The Panthers recorded three sacks and two fumble recoveries in the 23-10 win over the Broncos in Week 12.

Analysis: The Panthers have been a stingy defense this year with 22.2 points allowed per game (14th), and they haven't allowed more than 15 points in a game since Week 9 despite facing the Ravens and Falcons in that stretch. The Seahawks will host the Panthers this week and will likely have a severely banged-up backfield, including RB Kenneth Walker, who is dealing with an ankle injury. Walker could play, but he may not be 100 percent if he does. Nevertheless, the Seahawks' passing game has been…read more

The Panthers recorded three sacks and an interception in the 13-3 loss to the Ravens in Week 11.

Analysis: The Panthers showed signs of life defensively again, as they also did in Week 10 by holding the Falcons to 15 points and Week 7 by holding the Buccaneers to three points. They rank 18th with 22 sacks and 27th with 10 takeaways. However, their Week 12 matchup against the Broncos provides this unit with fantasy value, as the Broncos rank last in the league with 14.7 points per game while QB Russell Wilson has been sacked 32 times -- the second-most in the league.

The Panthers recorded five sacks and an interception in the 25-15 win over the Falcons in Week 10.

Analysis: The Panthers still rank 22nd in the league with 19 sacks and 25th with nine takeaways, so fantasy managers don't have much to get excited about. Any remaining excitement is extinguished by the matchup against QB Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, who have coughed up just nine turnovers through nine games -- the sixth-fewest in the league -- while posting 26.1 points per game (fourth).

The Panthers recorded two sacks and no takeaways in the 42-21 loss to the Bengals in Week 9.

Analysis: The Panthers were torched by RB Joe Mixon through the air and on the ground, as they allowed more than 36 points for the third time in five weeks. The team now ranks 29th with 25.3 points allowed per game and 27th with eight takeaways. They're a high-risk option every week, but there's some upside in Week 10 against the Falcons, who have coughed up two or more turnovers in five of nine games this season. More importantly, S Jeremy Chinn (hamstring) has a chance to play this week, too.

The Panthers recorded two interceptions and two sacks in the 37-34 overtime loss to the Falcons in Week 8.

Analysis: The Panthers have recorded eight turnovers (24th) and 12 sacks (29th) through eight games while giving up 23.3 points per game (21st). It will be difficult to trust the Panthers D/ST unless the matchup is perfect. It isn't this week. The Bengals -- who have averaged 23.3 points per game this year (13th) -- may be without WR Ja'Marr Chase (hip), but WRs Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd are fine stopgaps.

The Panthers recorded a sack and no takeaways in the 21-3 win over the Buccaneers in Week 7.

Analysis: The Panthers performed quite well despite missing starting QB Jaycee Horn, who could miss the Week 8 matchup against the Falcons, too. Panthers D/ST has a good opportunity against the Falcons, as QB Marcus Mariota has been sacked 17 times this year. However, it's hard to be excited about this Panthers defense considering they still rank 30th with 10 sacks and 26th with six takeaways.

The Panthers recorded an interception and a sack in the 24-10 loss to the Rams in Week 6.

Analysis: The Panthers have provided minimal fantasy value this season. They have allowed 24.3 points per game (23rd) while forcing just six turnovers (23rd) and recording nine sacks (28th). All three starting cornerbacks are battling injuries heading into the Week 7 game against the Buccaneers, and it's unclear who will be ready to play. They were a high-risk option against the Bucs if they were healthy, and they can't be trusted now that their secondary is so thin.

The Panthers recorded two sacks and a fumble recovery in the 37-15 loss to the 49ers in Week 5.

Analysis: The Panthers rank 25th in the league with eight sacks and 23rd with five takeaways while giving up 24.4 points per game (20th) along the way. There aren't many reasons to be excited about this unit, and having S Jeremy Chinn (hamstring) on the sidelines doesn't help its cause. There is a decent opportunity against the Rams, though. Through five weeks, the Rams have coughed up 12 turnovers (second-most in the league) while scoring just 16 points per game (29th). Panthers D/ST is still better…read more

The Panthers recorded an interception and a sack in the 26-16 loss to the Cardinals in Week 4.

Analysis: The Panthers have recorded six sacks (30th) and four takeaways (21st) through four games, so they haven't provided much upside this season. However, they have given up just 21.3 points per game (13th). The matchup against the 49ers could be sneaky good for fantasy purposes, as the 49ers have posted just 17.8 points per game (27th), though they have coughed up just five turnovers.

The Panthers recorded two interceptions, a fumble recovery and a sack in the 22-14 win over the Saints in Week 3.

Analysis: The Panthers rank 12th in the league with 19.7 points allowed per game, but with just three takeaways -- one of which was returned for a touchdown -- and five sacks, this unit has shown limited upside. Having faced QBs Jacoby Brissett, Daniel Jones and Jameis Winston, the Panthers have a tough test against Cardinals QB Kyler Murray on tap. The Cardinals rank 13th in the league with 20.7 points per game, but they have given up just one turnover this year. Panthers D/ST has high upside but is…read more

The Panthers posted three sacks in the 19-16 loss to the Giants in Week 2.

Analysis: The Panthers have yet to force a turnover, and they have four sacks through two games. Their pass rush has high upside; it has a great opportunity in Week 3 against the Saints, too. QB Jameis Winston has been sacked 10 times this year, and he has thrown three interceptions, as well. This will be a trickier task if RB Alvin Kamara (ribs) is back, but Panthers D/ST could have a big week regardless.

The Panthers recorded a sack and no takeaways in the 26-24 loss to the Browns in Week 1.

Analysis: The Panthers had no answer for the Browns on the ground, and they' could struggle again versus RB Saquon Barkley, who rushed for 164 yards in the opener. However, there's plenty of upside for Panthers D/ST. QB Daniel Jones doesn't have any trusted weapons outside of Barkley, and he can play sloppy. He threw a pick and lost a fumble in Week 1 versus the Titans.

CB Jaycee Horn (foot) was activated from the PUP list and played in the final preseason game.

Analysis: The 2021 first-round pick is expected to start on Carolina's defense opposite CB Donte Jackson, and they'll get some help from safeties Xavier Woods and Jeremy Chinn. However, this defense needs a lot of help. Last year, it finished 21st with 23.8 points allowed per game and 26th with 16 takeaways, though it managed to rank 14th with 39 sacks. Their pass rush should generate some big games for fantasy purposes, and they'll get a favorable schedule to start the year against the Browns and Giants.

The only defensive player on the PUP list to begin training camp for the Panthers is CB Jaycee Horn (foot).

Analysis: Horn apparently isn't dealing with a serious injury, so he could be ready for the preseason opener Aug. 13 in Washington. The Panthers D/ST will be heavily relying on the improvement of its young pieces like Horn, though it did sign S Xavier Woods during the offseason.

The Panthers ranked second in total defense (305.9 YPG) and 21st in scoring defense (23.8 PPG) in 2021 and lost pass rusher Haason Reddick during the offseason.

Analysis: Reddick had 11 sacks for Carolina last year, and the team didn't do much to replace that production via free agency or the draft. S Xavier Woods signed as a free agent and should bolster the secondary, but the Panthers will mostly rely on the expected improvement of their young talent both in the pass rush and on the back end to carry their defense in 2022, with CB Jaycee Horn, DT Derrick Brown and DEs Yetur Gross-Matos and Brian Burns headlining that group.

The Panthers allowed 280 points and 18 points during the Week 17 loss to the Saints and play the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina D/ST gave up only 4.8 yards per play, but it had minimal fantasy production with two sacks and zero takeaways. The final game of the season presents a more difficult proposition against QB Tom Brady, who is in the midst of one of his most productive seasons. The Panthers D/ST is off the fantasy radar for Week 18 given the matchup.

The Panthers allowed 391 yards and 32 points during the Week 16 loss to the Buccaneers and play the Saints on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina D/ST had zero sacks or takeaways while surrendering 159 yards on the ground while the offense was unable to score a touchdown. The Saints get back QB Taysom Hill from the COVID-19 list this week, so this matchup isn't as appealing as it could have been. The Panthers D/ST hasn't made much of an impact since Week 10 and is a below-average option for Week 17, though Hill's limitations as a passer should provide some turnover opportunities.

The Panthers allowed 312 yards and 31 points during the Week 15 loss to the Bills and play the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina D/ST had four sacks and zero takeaways and hasn't recorded multiple takeaways in a contest since Week 10. QB Tom Brady and the Bucs are coming off a shutout against the Saints, and seem likely to return to form with a vengeance this weekend. The Panthers D/ST is off the fantasy radar for Week 16 given the poor matchup.

The Panthers allowed 318 yards and 22 offensive points during the Week 14 loss to the Falcons and play the Bills on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina D/ST mustered zero sacks and only one takeaway as it failed to take advantage of a favorable matchup. The outlook is worse this weekend, as Buffalo is one of the highest scoring offenses in the league. The Panthers D/ST isn't worth fantasy consideration for Week 15 given the poor matchup.

The Panthers come out of the bye week ranked second in total defense (290.9 YPG) and seventh in scoring (21.1 PPG) heading into Sunday's matchup with the Falcons.

Analysis: QB Tua Tagovailoa completed 27 of 31 pass attempts Week 12 as Miami methodically moved the ball throughout the afternoon, so it was a good time for the bye week for the Carolina D/ST.. The Panthers have been up-and-down since a fantastic start to the season, but a good matchup awaits this week. as Atlanta has scored only 41 points over the past four games. The Panthers D/ST is a solid choice for Week 14 given the matchup.

Carolina gave up 369 yards and 27 points during the Week 11 loss to Washington and play Miami on Sunday.

Analysis: The Panthers D/ST had one takeaway and three in what was a modest performance. QB Tua Tagovailoa has played relativley well since his return from injury, but the Dolphins offense remains mediocre at best. The Carolina D/ST has 13 takeaways and 30 sacks so far in 2021 and is an above-average option for Week 12 given the solid matchup.

Carolina allowed 169 yards and 10 points during the Week 10 win over Arizona and play Washington on Sunday.

Analysis: It was a dominating performance with four sacks and two takeaways while giving up a mere 3.2 yards per play as the Panthers took advantage with QB Kyler Murray (ankle) sidelined. The Football Team put up 29 points on the Bucs last week, which was a major rebound after averaging 11.0 points over the previous three contests. Still, Washington ranks tied-24th in giveaways (14) and tied-16th in sacks allowed (20), while the Panthers rank tied-fourth in sacks (27) and; tied-14th in takeaways (12).…read more

The Panthers allowed 273 yards and 17 offensive points during the Week 9 loss to the Patriots and play the Cardinals on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina D/ST had a decent showing versus New England, notching two sacks and two takeaways while giving up a pair of touchdowns. QB Kyler Murray (ankle) and WR DeAndre Hopkins (hamstring) sat out last week, and neither has yet to return to the practice field. The Panthers D/ST is a subpar option for Week 10 if Murray is able to play, but if Colt McCoy is under center its outlook improves considerably for this weekend.

The Panthers allowed 213 yards and 13 points during the Week 8 win over the Falcons and play the Patriots on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina D/ST had two takeaways and three sacks while holding Atlanta to one touchdown in a strong performance. The debut of CB Stephon Gilmore provided a boost to the secondary and should improve the outlook for the rest of the year. Rookie QB Mac Jones has found his stride of late for New England, as its averaging 33.8 points over the past four games. The Panthers D/ST is a middling option for Week 9.

The Panthers allowed 302 yards and 22 offensive points during the Week 7 loss to the Giants and play the Falcons on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina offense was awful throughout the day and consistently put the defense in compromising situations. The Panthers D/ST had two sacks and zero takeaways, though it did allow only 4.5 yards per play. Atlanta has been a middle of the road offense overall in 2021, but its found its stride a bit in recent weeks and is averaging 29.0 points over the past three games. The Carolina D/ST had a fantastic start to the season against poor competition but is now a below-average option for Week 8.

The Panthers gave up 571 yards and 34 points during the Week 6 loss to the Vikings and play the Giants on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina D/ST had one takeaway and zero sacks while Minnesota averaged 6.8 yards per play. The Panthers still rank third in total defense (308.3 YPG), sixth in scoring defense (20.2 PPG), tied-sixth in sacks (16) and tied-19th in takeaways (six), but the unit has largely struggled against competent offenses the past few weeks after an easy schedule to start the year. New York's skill players are banged up, leaving a load of question marks as to who will be available for QB Daniel Jones. The…read more

The Panthers allowed 273 yards and 21 points during the Week 5 loss to the Eagles and play the Vikings on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina had two sacks, two takeaways and a safety while giving up 4.5 yards per play and only 15 first downs. The Panthers got steamrolled by the Cowboys in Week 4 but responded with a solid performance and have otherwise been a reliable option in 2021. Meanwhile, Minnesota has scored only 26 points across the past two games with RB Davlin Cook (ankle) banged up. The Vikings have only four giveaways and nine sacks allowed through five games, so it hasn't been a great matchup for fantasy…read more

The Panthers allowed 36 points and 433 yards during the Week 4 loss to the Cowboys and play the Eagles on Sunday.

Analysis: Dallas averaged 7.7 yards per play while the Carolina D/ST went without a takeaway or a sack. The Panthers defense dominated lesser teams across the first three games of the season, but the Cowboys delivered a dominant offensive performance. QB Jalen Hurts has endured some ups-and-downs in his first full year as a starter for Philadelphia, but the offense overall ranks middle of the pack and has only two giveaways. The Panthers D/ST should be back on the fantasy radar this week but as an…read more

The Panthers allowed 193 yards and nine points during the Week 3 win over the Panthers and play the Cowboys on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina didn't have any takeaways and recorded four sacks while holding Houston to 3.9 yards per play. The Panthers D/ST has given up only 30 points through three games and also leads the league in sacks (14), but Week 4 brings a much more difficult test. The Cowboys are coming off a 41-point explosion against the Eagles, and QB Dak Prescott has plenty of weapons with WRs Cee Dee Lamb and Amari Cooper on the outside and RB Ezekiel Elliott leading the backfield. The Carolina D/ST will be…read more

The Panthers allowed 128 yards and seven points during the Week 2 win over the Saints and play the Texans on Thursday

Analysis: Carolina completed shut down New Orleans, allowing a mere 3.0 yards per play while notching two takeaways and four sacks. The Panthers now have three takeaways and 10 sacks through the first two games of the season, and Week 3 brings a matchup with a Houston offense that will be missing QB Tyrod Taylor (hamstring). Rookie QB Davis Mills has a short week to prep for Thursday Night Football, so the Carolina D/ST should be a top-tier option for this week given the matchup and its strong start to…read more

The Panthers gave up 252 yards and 14 points Week 1 against the Jets and will play the Saints on Sunday.

Analysis: The Carolina pass rush set the tone by bringing down rookie QB Zach Wilson six times in his debut, while also holding New York to 45 rushing yards and 4-for-13 on third-down conversions. Things get tougher this week against New Orleans, as QB Jameis Winston comes off a five-touchdown performance despite throwing only 20 passes versus Green Bay. Winston figures to come back down to earth Week 2, especially with top WRs Michael Thomas (ankle) and Tre'Quan Smith (hamstring) out, but even so this…read more

The Panthers will face rookie QB Zach Wilson in Sunday's season opener against the Jets.

Analysis: The second-overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, Wilson is the new face of the franchise for the Jets, and his regular-season debut should be a prime opportunity for the Panthers defense to give him a harsh welcome to the league. Corey Davis headlines an underwhelming receiving corps as New York doesn't feature a dangerous set of weapons. The Carolina D/ST is unlikely to be a reliable option week-to-week in 2021, but Week 1 provides a favorable matchup with a rookie QB in his debut.

The Panthers surrendered 21 points and 427 yards during the preseason opener against the Colts.

Analysis: Carolina forced three turnovers and recorded three sacks in the first exhibition contest. The Panthers have remaining preseason matchups with the Ravens and Steelers, which should provide tougher tests than the Colts. The exhibitions likely won't reveal too much regardless, but they're important reps for a young defense coming off a solid performance in 2020.

Seventh-round rookie Phil Hoskins (foot) and reserve safety Lano Hill (COVID-19 protocols) are the lone absences to begin training camp for the Panthers.

Analysis: Hoskins is on the PUP list while Hill should join practice once he clears the necessary protocols, though neither player should have a significant role for Carolina in 2021. A healthy start to training camp is a good start, and the defense has had some good luck to start out. The Panthers have a young unit overall that should benefit from the return of preseason games this year after taking a big step forward in 2020.

The Panthers signed free agents OLB Haason Reddick, LB Denzel Perryman and CB A.J. Bouye this offseason and also selected CB Jaycee Horn eighth overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Analysis:

Carolina allowed 386 yards and 13 points during the Week 16 win over Washington and play New Orleans on Sunday.

Analysis:

Carolina gave up 291 yards and 24 points during the Week 15 loss to Green Bay and play Washington on Sunday.

Analysis:

The Panthers allowed 365 yards and 32 points during the Week 14 loss to the Broncos and play the Packers on Saturday.

Analysis:

The Panthers come out of their bye week ranked 20th in total defense (364.3 YPG) and 16th in scoring (25.0 PPG) as they get set to play the Broncos on Sunday.

Analysis:

The Panthers allowed 185 yards during the shutout win over the Lions in Week 11 and play the Vikings on Sunday.

Analysis:

The Panthers surrendered 544 yards and 46 points during the Week 10 loss to the Buccaneers and play the Lions on Sunday.

Analysis:

The Panthers allowed 397 yards and 33 points during the Week 9 loss to the Chiefs and play the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina predictably had trouble slowing down QB Patrick Mahomes, with only one takeaway and one sack to show for its efforts. Meanwhile, the Bucs are coming off a pitiful three-point and three-giveaway performance against the Saints, which is unlikely to be replicated Sunday. The Panthers D/ST is a subpar option for Week 10 with Tampa Bay likely to get back on track after last week's poor showing.

The Panthers allowed 401 yards and 25 points during the Week 8 loss to the Falcons and play the Chiefs on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina had one takeaway and two sacks as it provided little fantasy output during the Thursday contest. It limited Atlanta to 3.6 YPC on the ground but surrendered 8.4 yards per pass attempt. The Panthers rank 11th in takeaways (11) and 29th in sacks (eight), but none of that really matters this week. QB Patrick Mahomes is putting up another MVP-caliber season, and there's no real reason to risk considering the Panthers D/ST for Week 9.

The Panthers allowed 415 yards and 27 points during the Week 7 loss to the Saints and play the Falcons on Thursday.

Analysis: Carolina had one sack and one takeaway while having some serious issues getting off the field, as New Orleans went 12-for-14 on third-down conversions. The absences of top WRs Michael Thomas (hamstring) and Emmanuel Sanders (COVID) mattered little, as QB Drew Brees still picked apart the defense. Atlanta is represents a better matchup, but there's not much to be excited about as it ranks seventh in giveaways (six) and is in the top half of the league in sack rate (5.0 percent). The Carolina…read more

The Panthers allowed 23 points and 261 yards during the Week 6 loss to the Bears and play the Saints on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina played fairly well defensively, but an interception on the first drive put them in a bad spot early, as Chicago opening drive needed only seven yards to reach the end zone, and two additional giveaways also didn't help. The Panthers gave up only 4.1 yards per play but had zero sacks and only one takeaway. New Orleans comes off its bye and should welcome Michael Thomas (ankle) back to the field, moving the Carolina D/ST back to irrelevancy for Week 7.

The Panthers gave up 16 points and 369 yards during the Week 5 win over the Falcons and play the Bears on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina had only one takeaway and two sacks, but it was a strong performance as it kept Atlanta out of the endzone following RB Todd Gurley's first quarter score. The Panthers rank tied-sixth in takeaways (eight) but are tied-29th in sacks (five) and struggle mightily against the run (5.4 YPC). The transition from Mitchell Trubisky to Nick Foles at QB doesn't change much for Chicago's outlook as a subpar offense, so the Panthers D/ST is a decent matchup for this week despite its deficiencies.

The Panthers held the Cardinals to 21 points and 262 yards during Week 4 and play the Falcons on Sunday.

Analysis: Arizona averaged 5.6 yards per carry but held QB Kyler Murray to 133 passing yards on 31 attempts. The takeaways were scarce Sunday, but Carolina ranks tied-fifth with seven on the season. The Panthers strong pass defense (6.1 YPA) and weak run defense (5.1 YPC) matches up well against the Falcons, though QB Matt Ryan still has good ball security. The Carolina D/ST is off to a decent start in 2020 and is a middling option for Week 5.

The Panthers allowed 16 points and 436 points during the Week 3 win over the Chargers and play the Cardinals on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina surrendered 436 yards, but it consistently made plays with two sacks and four takeaways. It was a surprise performance from the group, which entered the contest zero sacks and two takeaways. The Cardinals are coming off a three-giveaway performance last week, so there is some potential for fantasy production in Week 4. However, it's unlikely either team replicates those performances, leaving the Panthers D/ST as a low-tier option.

The Panthers allowed 339 yards and 31 points to the Buccaneers in Week 2 and play the Chargers on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina forced a pair of turnovers but had zero sacks as Tampa Bay averaged 5.5 YPC on the ground. Rookie QB Justin Herbert made a surprise start in Week 2 for the Chargers and played well, but it remains unclear if he or Tyrod Taylor (chest) will be starting under center this week. Regardless of who's at quarterback for Los Angeles, the Carolina D/ST isn't an attractive option for Week 3.

The Panthers gave up 34 points and 372 yards to the Raiders in Week 1 and play the Buccaneers on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina had little going for it defensively in the season opener as it had zero sacks or takeaways and allowed 6.1 yards per play. The Buccaneers hardly represent a better matchup in Week 2, so the Panthers D/ST should remain of the fantasy radar this week.

The Panthers will host the Raiders at 1 P.M. ET in the season opener Sunday.

Analysis: The Raiders and QB Derek Carr finished 2019 ranked 11th in total offense (363.7 YPG), 23rd in scoring (19.3 PPG), tied-seventh in giveaways (17) and eighth in sacks (29), while the Panthers struggled defensively outside of sacks (ranked second with 53). Carolina was especially bad against the run (5.2 YPC), which could lead to a big day for RB Josh Jacobs. The Panthers overhauled much of the unit with numerous offseason departures and seven defensive draft picks, which means the Carolina D/ST…read more

The Panthers utilized all seven of their picks in the 2020 draft on defensive players.

Analysis: Carolina had a solid start to the season, but it lost nine of 10 games after the Week 7 bye, allowing 33.7 PPG. The Panthers finished second with 53 sacks, but they had the worst rush defense in the league (5.2 YPC). The retirement of Luke Kuechly leaves the defense completely devoid of playmakers other than DE Brian Burns, who had 7.5 sacks as a rookie. A matchup with the Raiders awaits in the season opener.

The Panthers allowed 324 yards and 38 points to the Colts in Week 16 and play the Saints on Sunday.

Analysis: It was an abysmal performance all-around for Carolina, as the offense failed to score a touchdown, the defense didn't have a takeaway and the punt coverage gave up two long touchdowns. The Panthers have basically been in free fall during the second half of the season and have lost their last seven games. Even if New Orleans rests some offensive starters in the regular-season finale -- which coach Sean Payton said won't happen -- the Carolina D/ST isn't worth plugging into a lineup.

The Panthers allowed 428 yards and 30 points to the Seahawks in Week 15 and play the Colts on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina had two sacks and one takeaway as it continues its downward spiral in the second half of the season. Much like Seattle last week, Indianapolis is coming off a single-digit offensive performance, but Carolina as given up 29-plus points in each of the last five games. The Panthers are tied for the league lead in sacks (49) and are tied-10th in takeaways, but they have provided minimal fantasy value of late.

The Panthers were torched for 461 yards and 40 points during the Week 14 loss to the Falcons and play the Seahawks on Sunday.

Analysis: Carolina appeared primed for some sacks against Atlanta's struggling pass protection, but they had only one sack and zero takeaways and provided zero fantasy value. The Panthers still rank second in sacks (47) and tied-sixth in takeaways (20) in 2019, but their fantasy production has evaporated since their Week 7 bye. The Seahawks managed only six offensive points last week against the Rams, but there's no reason to believe the Panthers can replicate that defensive performance.

Carolina surrendered 362 yards during the Week 13, 29-21 loss to Washington and will play Atlanta on Sunday.

Analysis: The Panthers laid an egg at home against one of the worst offenses in the NFL, which proved to be the final straw for HC Ron Rivera, who was let go. Carolina salvaged some value with five sacks, but it was gashed for 248 rushing yards (8.3 per carry) and had zero takeaways. The Falcons have struggled with consistency all season which has them in the bottom half of the league in giveaways (21) and scoring offense (21.7 PPG). Atlanta has struggled mightily up front over the last two games,…read more

The Panthers surrendered 418 yards and 34 points to the Saints in Week 12 and will play the Redskins on Sunday.

Analysis: The loss puts a cap on a brutal stretch for the Panthers, as the defense has only one takeaway and given up 87 points over the last three games. Carolina still ranks fifth in takeaways (20) and second in sacks (41) but now has the 25th-ranked scoring defense. It's perfect timing for a matchup against the Redskins, which features the worst offense in the league in yardage (253.4 YPG) and scoring (13.1 PPG). Fire up the Carolina D/ST across the board for Week 13.

The Panthers surrendered 349 yards and 29 points to the Falcons in Week 11 and will play the Saints on Sunday.

Analysis: The absences of RB Devonta Freeman (foot) and TE Austin Hooper (knee) meant next to nothing in this contest, as Carolina finished minus-four in the turnover battle, though it did have three sacks. The Panthers still rank tied-fourth in the league with 19 takeaways, but they have zero over the past two games and will face a team in the Saints the protects the ball better than any team in the NFL (six giveaways). Owners of the Panthers D/ST would be well advised to check out available streaming…read more

Carolina allowed 388 yards in Sunday's 24-16 loss to Green Bay and will play the Falcons in Week 11.

Analysis: The Packers averaged 6.7 yards per play and were able to move the ball throughout the game, but a goal-line stand heading into halftime helped keep the Panthers close. Carolina had two sacks and zero takeaways, so there wasn't much production on the fantasy side. Atlanta figures to be short-handed this week with Devonta Freeman (foot) and Austin Hooper (knee) both suffering injuries. Carolina still leads the league in sacks (36) and is tied-fourth in takeaways (19), which gives it a solid floor…read more