Panthers Eyeing Bigger Prize After Beating Bucs

CHARLOTTE - After the Carolina Panthers bulldozed through one of the top run defenses, the NFC's road to Super Bowl XLIII may very well wind through this city. Running backs DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart paved the way for such a possibility during Monday night's 38-23 home victory over Tampa Bay. The duo combined for a rushing total that sounds more like a healthy batting average. Williams and Stewart tallied 301 yards and four touchdowns, helping the Panthers take the NFC South lead and bettering the odds of an even bigger prize at month's end. By winning its final three games, Carolina (10-3) is guaranteed home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. "We knew this game was huge," Williams said. "It was a playoff atmosphere." Williams and Stewart moved the Panthers closer to the postseason with three fourth-quarter rushing touchdowns. First, Stewart flashed the power that made him a 2008 first-round draft choice on a four-yard score. Williams then added sizzle with touchdown jaunts ... (link)