The Panthers running game now has one difference from now to where they were most of last year: in the playoffs. Last year, the Panthers had to use RB Nick Goings as their starter most of the year after both Stephan Davis and DeShaun Foster were out with injuries. A few weeks ago, Davis was placed on the injured reserve and this past Sunday against the Chicago Bears, Foster broke his ankle.

"It's disappointing. DeShaun was doing so well. But he'll be back," said Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme.

Goings has already seen some playoff action as the backup to Foster and was inserted into the game when Foster left against the Bears. Delhomme believes that the Panthers can still get the same production.

"Nick and DeShaun are similar. He can get it done," Delhomme said.

Foster played great in the playoffs for the Panthers. He rushed for 151 yards against the Giants in the first round, and had 54 yards rushing before leaving against Chicago.