MNF in Charlotte

The Carolina Panthers will hosts the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in an important division game for both teams tonight. The Bucs are 9-3 and have won their last 4 games. The Panthers are also 9-3 but have not been playing consistent football the last few weeks. Because of a week 6 blowout loss in Tampa, a loss tonight would virtually end their division title hopes as they would be 2 games down with only 3 to go. A win would likely propel the Panthers into the playoffs and possibly the division title. So that's what is at stake tonight, but who will win?

The Panthers will win because they are playing at home; Why? NFC South teams are 23-2 this season at home. Also, Jake Delhomme is a much better QB at home than on the road this season. Coincidence, possibly, but look at these numbers. At home, he is completing over 63% of his passes accounting for 9 touchdowns with only 2 interceptions. Away, Delhomme is completing just 53% of his passes, throwing 3 touchdowns to 7 interceptions. Williams and Stewart combined for a season low 39 yards in week 6. Look for John Fox to get the ground game going early opening up the big play to Steve Smith down the field. Better QB play from Delhomme combined with a better running game should spell revenge for the Panthers.