Opponent – Carolina Panthers
Coach – Ron Rivera
Quarterback – Cam Newton
2017 record – 11-5, second in NFC South
Most recent matchup: Jan. 7, 2018 wild-card game. Saints won 31-26
2018 games: Monday, Dec. 17 @ Bank of America Stadium, 7:15 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 30 @ Mercedes-Benz Superdome, noon.
Panthers-Saints series record: Panthers lead 24-23
Stadium – Bank of America Stadium
2017 Season Recap:
Everything seemed to be running smoothly for the Panthers during their 2017 season. Though they were dealing with a persistent injury to their go-to tight end, Greg Olsen, the Panthers were able to overcome and finish the season 11-5. Much of the credit is due not only to Cam Newton but to the breakout season by wide receiver Devin Funchess, who nearly doubled his yards per game. The Saints defeated the Panthers in the wild-card game 31-26.
Notable Additions:
- Cornerback – Donte Jackson
- Offensive tackle – Jeremiah Sirles
- Wide receiver – Torrey Smith
- Wide receiver – D.J. Moore
- Cornerback - Ross Cockrell
- Defensive tackle – Dontari Poe
- Running back – C.J. Anderson
Notable Losses:
- Safety – Kurt Coleman (signed with Saints)
- Defensive end – Charles Johnson
