NFC South Power Rankings: Week 2 standings

Sep 13, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) sets the play against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first quarter at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

2. Carolina Panthers
Last week: 1

Carolina may have won in Jacksonville, but it was far from convincing. The Panthers put up just 253 yards of total offense, but were impressive in shutting down second-year quarterback Blake Bortles and the young Jaguars offense. Against better teams though, a similar performance won’t get it done.

Jonathan Stewart made just 56 yards on his 18 rush attempts, and there wasn’t a standout performance from any of the receivers. Tedd Ginn Jr. was the pick of the bunch with two receptions for 54 yards, but this offense will continue to miss Kelvin Benjamin, who is out for the year with a torn ACL.

Up next is the Houston Texans at the Bank of America Stadium. It won’t be an easy contest due to the powerful front seven that is the Houston defense. But offensively they are without Arian Foster and solid quarterback play, with Ryan Mallett expected to take over the starting gig ahead of Brian Hoyer.

Next: No. 1