Are Panthers Contenders in 2007?

Foxsports.com is running an article right now detailing a few pros and cons for the Carolina Panthers heading into the 2007 season.  The Panthers, who were heavily favored by many experts, analysts, pundits, and fans to make it to the Super Bowl last year, had a disappointing season and finished without even making the playoffs. This year, they have flown under the radar for the most part, with many analysts being reluctant to pick them again after last year’s debacle of a season.  The preseason favorite to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl is New Orleans.

Am I the only one that thinks this is bonkers?  New Orleans, really?  The Saints?  One good year, and we’re ready to crown these guys as Super Bowl contenders?  Shouldn’t they have something that resembles an NFL defense first?  Shouldn’t teams that have been there recently, like Carolina or Chicago, have at least some pull?  Don’t get me wrong, I expect the Saints to be great, especially on offense.  However, I was always taught that defense wins championships, and until the Saints start showing that they can shut down some of the best teams in the NFL, I still have to give the slight edge come playoff time to NFC teams like Chicago, Carolina, and even the Dallas Cowboys.  I think Carolina could certainly be a sleeper team this year after being the heavy favorite last year.

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