As the NFL’s regular season winds to a close, the contenders and pretenders in the league are already established. As we look back at week 14, we take a look at some of the action, and what we learned.
This is Carolina’s league
As the rest of the league presses forward, the Carolina Panthers continue to move through their schedule with ease, most recently disposing of the Atlanta Falcons 38-0 in week 14.
Quarterback Cam Newton appears to be the clear front-runner for MVP, and the Panthers have already clinched the NFC South and a first-round bye in the playoffs. The only question for Carolina that remains–will head coach Ron Rivera rest starters? Or will Carolina go for 16-0?
The Indianapolis Colts are officially done
Following a 45-10 embarrassment on Sunday Night Football at the hands of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Indianapolis Colts went on the road and embarrassed themselves again, this time at the hands of the division rival Jacksonville Jaguars, 51-16.
Following the loss, Colts head coach Chuck Pagano took heat from local reporters in his press conference, choosing to deflect tough questions and even walking away from the podium with haste.
At this point, it appears all but a formality that Pagano will be out of a job at the end of the season. Whether the Colts will win the lowly AFC South still remains, but this team has virtually no chance in the playoffs without their franchise, Andrew Luck.
A familiar route to Super Bowl 50 for New England
Following a 27-6 domination of the Houston Texans on Sunday Night Football, the New England Patriots were able to stop their losing streak at two. However, the win didn’t come without a costly loss.
Running back Lagarrette Blount, who was already taking the reins from Dion Lewis, who was lost earlier in the season with a knee injury, is now out for the season following a hip injury sustained against the Texans.
What this means for the Patriots is something all too familiar–the New England Patriots will have to rely on the play and leadership of Tom Brady in order to return to the Super Bowl for their title defense.
As we round out the NFL’s regular season, make sure you round out your plans for Super Bowl 50! Ticket and hotel packages are still available here. And if you’re going to be in the San Francisco bay area, make sure not to miss your opportunity to enjoy the 2016 Players Super Bowl Tailgate, hosted by Erin Andrews, with food prepared by Guy Fieri and the opportunity to meet current NFL players!