The NFC divisional playoff matchup between Seattle Seahawks and Carolina Panthers could be a beginning of a playoff rivalry. The Seahawks have won their previous two NFC championships while the Panthers own an NFL-best 15-1 win-loss record. Now, we'll give you the latest news and updates about the Seahawks vs. Panthers game.
Here's what you need to know about the Sunday's encounter:
Time and Day: 1:05 p.m. ET Sunday
Location: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina
TV: Fox
Online: Fox Sports Go
NFL Nation Sports analyst David Newton said Jonathan Stewart is set to return in the game, after recovering from sprained foot injury. Stewart's comeback will surely be a big boost for the Panther's running game. Like Marshawn Lynch, Stewart has "Beast Mode" that 's hard to stop. During NFL Week 6, Stewart had 78 yards rushing and two touchdowns.
Furthermore, Cam Newton is one of the brightest young stars in the NFL today. He entered the playoffs at the top of his respective games.
In the last seven games of the regular season, Newton - the frontrunner for league MVP - made 24 touchdowns and just one interception. He will undoubtedly present many challenges for Seahawk's defense. The Panthers quarterback is a powerful force with designed runs, and he can evade defenders in the pocket to keeps plays alive.
Seattle's rush defense is also a threat for Seahawks. The Panthers ranked fourth in the NFL allowing just 88.4 rush yards per game
On other hand, it could be a tough game for Seattle Seahawks. The team beat the Minnesota Vikings in an exhausting Wild Card playoff matchup. There's no way they're coming 100 percent against the Panthers, which is one the toughest teams in NFL.
Seahawks can rely on Russell Wilson. The quarterback has five games with a passer rating of 104.6 or better, and he has a career playoff passer rating of 93.9 that ranks seventh all-time. In his last seven games in the regular season, he produced 25 total touchdowns and one interception.
"He makes magic out of nothing," said cornerback Josh Norman, referring to Wilson's plays.
The Sunday's encounter marks the second straight year that these two teams have met in the divisional round. Seattle won 31-17 at home last season.
During the 2015 regular season, Carolina Panthers won 27-23 against Seattle Seahawks.