CHARLOTTE — Because he is committed to a routine, Panthers head coach Dave Canales brought his guys in Monday and went through the film.

And then he turned them loose, and they were out the door with luggage.

The Panthers not only get to celebrate a 31-28 win over the Rams that moved them to 7-6 and legitimate playoff consideration, but a hard-earned bye.

When players leave the building, they have off until they reconvene next Monday to prepare for the final four-week sprint.

"The importance of the bye-week, getting our recovery from a physical standpoint, but also just mentally, emotionally," Canales said of the break. "This is a long season, making sure that we take that break, but make sure we keep moving and be ready to get back to work. Every game is a championship opportunity. It

See Full Page