Ron Rivera: 'Santonio Holmes can say what he likes'

Carolina Panthers head coach Ron Rivera has admitted that he does not mind Santonio Holmes's comments about his side, but has challenged him to back them up on Sunday.

The New York Jets wide receiver stated that the Panthers' secondary has been their "weakest link" this season ahead of their week 15 clash with Rivera's side.

"People are going to say what they want to say. That's fine," Rivera told reporters. "But that's why you play them on Sunday to find out.

"Something I learned in all my years of playing, it's all about showing up on Sunday and we'll see how it goes. That's why you play."

The Panthers are 9-4 in their season going into week 15.