The Carolina Panthers went on the road to face the struggling Seattle Seahawks in Week 6 of the regular season, and a late rally in the fourth quarter pushed them to what was probably their best win of the regular season. Winning in Seattle is huge, and the Panthers took a massive step with that victory.

But the Seahawks weren't at their best in that game. It took until late in the regular season, but they have now regained their playoff form and composure. The Panthers will face them in the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs, a big stage the Seahawks are well used to by now.

Fortunately for Carolina, they will host the Seahawks for this game and have that home-field advantage, but the Seahawks are not going to be intimidated by the pressure of the matchup. The Panthers did perform well in the Wild Card round last season, winning a game before losing in the Divisional Round ... to the Seahawks.

That game wasn't close, as the Seahawks dominated. But the Panthers are much, much better this season than they were last. Cam Newton is a surefire MVP candidate with 35 touchdowns against 10 interceptions, and another 636 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground. He's a dangerous weapon, but the Seahawks feel the same way about their own Russell Wilson.

After a sluggish start to the regular season, Wilson was incredible in the final weeks. He threw three or more touchdowns in six of the team's last seven games, and threw five touchdowns twice. During that time, he only had one interception, against the Rams.

How to Watch

When: Sunday, Jan. 17, 1:05 p.m. ET

Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, N.C.

TV: FOX

Commentators: Joe Buck, Troy Aikman

Online: NFL Game Pass