How to watch Falcons vs. Panthers 2014: Time, TV schedule, radio and live stream

The Atlanta Falcons were the darlings of the offseason, appearing on HBO's Hard Knocks training camp documentary series. The show depicted an upbeat team that had finally gotten healthy, ready for a playoff run. Though stars like Julio Jones, Matt Ryan and Roddy White have indeed stayed healthy, the team has not managed to improve upon last season's failure at 4-12. The prime culprit is an offensive line that has been so badly decimated at times this season that tight ends have been called upon to play tackle. Meanwhile, the defense hasn't improved nearly enough to make a significant impact.

The Carolina Panthers have also been affected by multiple injuries. Their running backs have been hit the hardest, with DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart, Fozzy Whittaker and Mike Tolbert all missing games this season. At times, the top tailback has been undrafted rookie Darrin Reaves. Even when healthy, the offensive line has provided little blocking, impacting both the ground game and the performance of quarterback Cam Newton.

Despite receiving little help from his offensive line, Ryan has played reasonably well this season. He has thrown twice as many touchdowns (16) as picks (8), and has averaged a respectable 7.5 yards per attempt. Most of his passes have been targeted at the aforementioned Jones, who has 61 catches for 853 yards and three touchdowns. He also leads the team with 18 plays of 20 yards or more. Most of the team's carries have gone to veteran Steven Jackson, who hasn't performed particularly well. His 111 attempts have resulted in 426 yards, a clip of just 3.8.

Largely for external reasons, Newton is in the midst of his worst season as a professional. He's been goaded into eight interceptions and has only thrown for 10 touchdowns. His 58.1 completion percentage is the second-lowest of his career while his two rushing scores are his fewest through nine starts. Carolina's ground game has been even worse, with the group averaging just 3.6 yards per attempt. Jonathan Stewart leads the group with 299 yards, though he has just one play of 20 yards or more and only two touchdowns.

Announcers: Thom Brennaman, David Diehl, Laura Okmin