TEMPE, Arizona (Ticker) -- The Carolina Panthers look to stop a three-game losing streak and claim the NFC South Division title Sunday when they meet the woeful Arizona Cardinals.
Despite their losing streak, the Panthers still hold a comfortable two-game lead over New Orleans and Tampa Bay with three games remaining. Carolina could claim its second division title in franchise history and first since 1996 with one win or one more loss by New Orleans and Tampa Bay.
Losing streaks are something that Panthers have grown accustomed to in the last two seasons. In 2001, the Panthers lost their final 15 games and last season they endured an eight-game skid.
Starting with this game, the Panthers have a very favorable schedule. Their last three games are against teams with a combined record of 11-28.
But the Panthers are coming off a 20-14 overtime loss at lowly Atlanta. The Panthers failed to contain Michael Vick and struggled defensively, allowing 380 total yards and 24 first downs.
The Cardinals already have clinched their fifth straight losing season and are coming off an embarrassing 50-14 defeat at San Francisco. Arizona gave up 496 yards and 30 first downs.
Cardinals coach Dave McGinnis has decided to make a switch at quarterback. Josh McCown, who came off the bench last week, will make his first career start, replacing Jeff Blake.
Arizona has been competitive at home, splitting its six games, including wins over playoff contenders Cincinnati and Green Bay. The Cardinals also lost an overtime contest here to St. Louis, which is tied with Philadelphia for the NFC's best record.
Last season, the Cardinals posted a 16-13 victory over the Panthers in Carolina. Bill Gramatica, who is on injured reserve, gave the Cardinals the win with a 50-yard field goal with 16 seconds left.
Arizona leads the series, 2-1.
