"Monday wrap-up"

College football
Could North Carolina actually be good at both basketball and football? Ok, probably not. But the hiring of Butch Davis is a huge boost for the flailing football program, which even Julius Peppers would have had trouble saving this season.

While Davis struggled in Cleveland, we should remember him for the success he brought to the University of Miami program - especially considering the disastrous season the 'Canes have had both on and off the field under Larry Coker.

Davis should at least turn Carolina into a respectable team, which is plenty for those who bleed Tar Heel Blue. Then again, does anyone really care? The hoops squad is ranked No. 2 entering the season.

That's what matters in Chapel Hill.

**just a note - beginning on Wednesday night I will provide you with plenty of insights heading into The Game in Columbus.

NFL
Remember how everybody, including Sports Illustrated - for the second consecutive year - picked Carolina to make it to the Super Bowl this season? Yeah, of course you do.

Well those people were holding their breath as the Panthers trailed Tampa Bay at halftime Monday night, 7-0. A loss would have dropped Carolina to 4-5, making it a tough uphill climb to the playoffs.

The Panthers scored 17 third-quarter points to eventually pull out a 24-10 victory, but I'm definitely not sold on Carolina as a playoff team, and definitely not as a Super Bowl team.

I'd take the Bears over the Panthers any day. For one, Carolina continues to prove that Steve Smith is its only big-play threat. Yes, Keyshawn Johnson had a four-yard touchdown reception on Monday, but Smith had an astounding 149 receiving yards compared to 91 for everybody else.

I don't think the Bears would make the same mistake of taking Smith lightly if these teams meet in the playoffs again. And without Smith, well, the Panthers aren't better than average.

All right, I'm out. Enjoy Ball State-Toledo tonight.