The Carolina Panthers have shown real progress and come achingly close to upsetting the last two opponents on their schedule. This week they're up against a different kind of challenge, though. While the Kansas City Chiefs are still on pace for the number one seed in the AFC,

Despite a second straight loss, the improving Panthers actually gained some ground across the power rankings this week.

Why would anyone consider backing them with Week 14 NFL bets? That's because they are coming off a mini-bye, playing at home, and welcoming a Saints team that isn't used to playing in the elements that New York City can present.