The Carolina Panthers entered Week 9 with a 3-4 record, a two-game losing streak and the top spot in their division. Well, they'll be leaving Week 9 with a 3-5 record, a three-game losing streak and the top spot in the their division.

Although Sunday's bitter 26-21 outcome to the Denver Broncos sent the Panthers to that third straight defeat, it wasn't enough to take them off their throne. Thanks to losses by the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, both of whom now sit at 3-6, the reigning NFC South champs will head into Week 10 still in first place.

Atlanta couldn't run with the Cincinnati Bengals in Spain this morning, falling in a 34-17 loss. Then, the nightcap saw Tampa Bay fall short to the Chicago Bears, 27-24.

Those results will set up a battle for first next Sunday between the Panthers and New Orleans Saints, the division's only victor from this weekend. New Orleans wrestled away a 23-22 overtime win from the Cleveland Browns, moving to 3-5 on the campaign.

All four NFC South teams are currently at three wins, with the Panthers and Saints up one in the loss column over the Bucs and Falcons.

Here are the standings going into Week 10 . . .

1. Carolina 3-5

2. New Orleans: 3-5

3. Tampa Bay: 3-6

4. Atlanta: 3-6