PRESEASON POWER RANKINGS

NO. 13

CAROLINA PANTHERS

In light of yet another mediocre performance by the Panthers' offense against the Patriots in Friday night's third preseason game, we might have put this team higher than they should be on the list of the 32 franchise.  But, on paper, the Panthers deserve this spot.

Then again, the Panthers on paper should have gone to the Super Bowl a year ago. Instead, they didn't even go to the playoffs.

It makes no sense to us.  The roster is full of talented players.  In a depleted NFC, the Panthers should have been in the hunt last season, and should be this season.

That's why coach John Fox is on the hot seat.  If the talent is there and the production isn't, the guy to blame is the coach.

As a result, quarterback Jake Delhomme is in danger of giving way to the No. 1 overall pick in the 2002 draft, David Carr, who could be the breath of fresh air the team needs. 

All things considered, there's no reason why the Panthers should be out of the playoff this year.  If they fail, big changes could be in store.  Including, possibly, the arrival of a newly-available coach who has "retired" to Raleigh. 

Key departures:  LB Chris Draft, S Mike Minter.

Key arrivals:  QB David Carr.

Draft pick most likely to make an impact:  WR Dwayne Jarrett.

Coach's current job security:  One year or less.