It’s common knowledge in sports that if you take care of your own business, you don’t have to worry about anybody else as far as the standings are concerned.

While this is entirely true, getting some help along the way is never a bad thing. This column will be completely dedicated to the results of the other three NFC South teams throughout the season; hopefully we’ll be able to bask in their failures together.

This article series’ sole purpose will be to take a look at the weekly performances of the New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers and to look at how the NFC South is shaping up week in and week out.

Carolina Panthers 20, Detroit Lions 0

Playing without their starting quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, and without their superstar running back Christian McCaffrey, the Panthers put on an impressive display — led by their defense — to halt a five game losing streak.

It was an absolute slog-fest in the first half, with the Panthers taking a 7-0 lead into the break, in a game where both defenses dictated proceedings.

Detroit’s defense did what it could, but they couldn’t quite contain former XFL star P.J. Walker, who filled in admirably for the absent Bridgewater. Carolina’s defense, meanwhile, was completely dominant. The Lions punted six times, fumbled once, missed a field goal and turned it over on downs twice. They never once even entered the red zone.

Walker had 258 passing yards, one passing touchdown and two interceptions, both of which were in the end zone. Mike Davis paced the team in rushing with 64 yards along with a score. D.J. Moore had a personal season best 127 receiving yards to lead both teams.

Matthew Stafford had 178 passing yards with no touchdowns or turnovers to speak of. Adrian Peterson was the leading rusher with a meager 18 yards. T.J. Hockenson paced the team in receiving yards with 68.

NFC South Standings after Week 11

1. New Orleans Saints (8-2 overall record; 5-0 division record) - Next at Broncos

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-3 overall record; 1-2 division record) - Next vs. Rams (MNF)

3. Carolina Panthers (4-7 overall record; 1-4 division record) - Next at Vikings

4. Atlanta Falcons (3-7 overall record; 1-2 division record) - Next vs. Raiders