NFL Power Rankings: 49ers Tie Losing-Streak Record Into Week 12

NFL Power Rankings: 49ers Losing Streak Ties a Franchise Record Entering Week 12

November 20, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) passes the football against New England Patriots outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy (53) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 17, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) rides the cart after an injury in the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Saints 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

87. . 4-6. . Carolina Panthers. 21. team

Thankfully for the Carolina Panthers, the NFC South still remains wide open. And the third-place Panthers are still in the mix, in spite of dropping four games in a row between Weeks 3 and 6.

The Panthers survived a 23-20 home thriller over the New Orleans Saints on Thursday Night Football, which could have major implications on the rest of the division. But losing linebacker Luke Kuechly to a concussion doesn’t help things at all.

Quarterback Cam Newton wasn’t at his best Thursday, but the defense managed to do enough to hold off Saints quarterback Drew Brees and Co.

Can the Panthers replicate this effort on the road against a tough Oakland Raiders squad in Week 12?