CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Interstat) — A crucial late-season NFC clash with playoff implications is set for Sunday when the Seattle Seahawks visit the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.

The Seahawks (12-3), boasting one of the league’s best records, aim to solidify their postseason positioning. The Panthers (8-7), riding a surge, look to continue their push for a wild-card berth in a crowded conference race.

Seattle arrives after a dramatic 38-37 overtime victory over the Los Angeles Rams on Dec. 18. Quarterback Sam Darnold has been instrumental in the team’s four-game winning streak, showcasing efficiency and dual-threat capability. In the last month, Darnold has thrown for 869 yards and four touchdowns while adding 38 rushing yards and three scores on the ground. His recent performances, including a three-total-touchdown game against Atlanta, have fueled Seattle’s offensive consistency.

Carolina counters with its own ascending quarterback in Bryce Young. The Panthers have won two of their last three, including a 23-20 win over Tampa Bay on Dec. 21, where Young accounted for two touchdowns. Over the past three games, Young has passed for 560 yards and six touchdowns, complementing his arm with 92 rushing yards, demonstrating improved playmaking in key moments.

Despite Seattle’s superior record, the Panthers are a 7-point favorite according to sportsbooks, with an over/under set at 42.5 points. A projection from Interstat forecasts a 30-24 victory for Carolina.

The matchup features a stark contrast in recent defensive performance. Seattle’s defense has been formidable, posting a shutout against Minnesota and allowing an average of just 15.5 points during their win streak. Carolina’s defense, however, has been vulnerable, giving up an average of 24.6 points over its last five contests, setting the stage for a test against Darnold’s balanced attack.

Historically, the series is even, with the teams playing to a 0-0 tie in a preseason meeting on Dec. 26. Sunday’s contest carries significantly higher stakes, with both teams looking to build momentum heading into their regular-season finales on Jan. 3.