In a stunning twist of potential postseason drama, the Carolina Panthers stand on the precipice of NFL history - potentially becoming the first team since the 1970 league merger to reach the playoffs without a single game won as favorites.

The 8-8 Panthers could clinch their NFC South playoff berth this weekend through two potential scenarios: defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday or watching the Atlanta Falcons triumph over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

What makes Carolina's potential playoff journey remarkable isn't just their record, but their consistent underdog status. According to CBS Sports' Doug Clawson, the Panthers would be the first team since the merger to qualify for postseason play without ever being the betting favorites in any game this season.

Their path to potential playoff glory has already included impressive upsets, including victories against NFC playoff teams like the Green Bay Packers on the road and a home win against the Los Angeles Rams. These victories came despite being significant underdogs, with their Rams win coming when they were 10.5-point longshots.

If the Panthers secure their playoff spot, they'll likely enter the postseason as substantial underdogs against potential wild-card opponents like the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, or Los Angeles Rams. This underdog status could provide them a unique psychological advantage - no expectations, pure competitive spirit, and nothing to lose.

The team's potential wild-card matchup could be particularly intriguing, especially if the Bears and Eagles win their home games, potentially setting up a rematch against an NFC West rival. The No. 5 seed might underestimate Carolina, creating a perfect storm for a potential playoff upset.

While the 3-13 New York Jets share the distinction of having no wins as favorites this season, they won't be joining the postseason party. The Panthers, however, stand ready to potentially rewrite NFL playoff narrative and prove that sometimes, being the perpetual underdog can be the most powerful position of all.