NFL: Carolina Panther Page

2008-11-25T14:31:00.001-05:00

Huh. In this article, Lewis says, "As ugly as it was, I don't think it's as bad as it looked by the score" in regards to the losing game against the Panthers. I'm not sure I agree with him.

2008-10-30T14:36:00.001-04:00

Get out there and vote next Tuesday, November 4th, Panther fans!

2008-10-20T13:34:00.000-04:00

Damn, Reggie's on fire! Is it true it's because Kim K. is in attendance?

3-4-5

2008-09-23T14:46:00.002-04:00

This article about the loss to the Vikings opens with: "With the 20-10 victory, Minnesota defeated Carolina for the second consecutive time and leads the all-time series 5-3."

Okay, so it's accurate, but they make it sound like there's a huge difference between 3 and 5. C'mon, there's only one number in between those two! Both numbers are on just one of my hands! Couldn't we just say that they've done a teensy bit better a couple more times than us? I think that's much better.

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-04T12:41:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't posted in a long time. Since Valentine's Day, in fact. Does posting only on holidays make me the blogging equivalent of a Chreaster? You know, the Christians who only go to church on Christmas and Easter. Yeah, I think that's me.

Sorry, but have a happy 4th anyway! See you on Labor Day...

Panthers do some good

2008-02-14T10:28:00.003-05:00

There's little more I like to see better than well-off people using their status to help others, and I'm happy to say the Panthers made me proud with this story about joining forces with the Levine's Children's Hospital and the American Heart Association, among other groups.

When given the choice between steroid scandals, drunken arrest newsflashes, and stories like this? I'll take this any day.

Panthers Schedule Update

2007-06-29T17:05:00.000-04:00

The Panthers have now released their full schedule:

Day Date Opponent

Friday Aug. 24 Patriots

Thursday Aug. 30 Steelers

Sunday Sept. 16 Texans

Sunday Sept. 30 Buccaneers

Sunday Oct. 28 Colts

Sunday Nov. 11 Falcons

Sunday Nov. 25 Saints

Sunday Dec. 2 49ers

Sunday Dec. 16 Seahawks

Saturday Dec. 22 Cowboys

Sunday Feb. 3 Super Bowl (I can hope, can't I?)

2007 Preseason

2007-04-04T10:33:00.000-04:00

All of the exact dates and times of the preseason games are still to be determined, and Carolina's 2007 regular season schedule will be released by the NFL later this month.

2007 Preseason Schedule
Day	Date	Opponent	Time
Saturday	August 4	Fan Fest	11:00 a.m.
Fri.-Sun.	Aug. 10-12	at New York Giants	TBD
Fri.-Sun.	Aug. 17-19	at Philadelphia Eagles	TBD
Friday	August 24	New England Patriots	8:00 p.m.
Thu.-Sat.	Aug. 30-Sept. 1	Pittsburgh Steelers	TBD

2007-01-17T14:24:00.000-05:00

Shake up for the Panthers: -- offensive coordinator Dan Henning and two other assistants have been fired. Couldn't have anything to do with just concluded, seriously disappointing 8-8 season, could it? Offensive line coach Mike Maser and secondary coach Rod Perry were also let go. Time to upgrade!

The New Guys

2006-12-15T12:33:00.000-05:00

You have your work cut out for you if you are the starting Quarterback against a New York Giants defense. Chris Weinke had that last Sunday on his first start in over 4 years. He made mistakes, admitedly saying "I cannot go out there, turn the ball over three times and still expect to come away with the win. It was fun to get back out there. I love to compete and I had my opportunity on Sunday." Weinke is starting in favor of an injured Jake Delhomme who is recovering albeit slowly. It does not look like he will be at a pro level by this weekend but he talks of the swelling going down. A thumb injury for a quarterback is hard when that digit is the main strength and grip on the ball. Injuries like that have plagued the Carolina Panthers as of late but that is not always a bad thing. With both normal starting cornerbacks, Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble, out with injuries, an up and coming star of a rookie, Richard Marshall, has been able to show off a bit more. With 5 starts he has pulled down 3 interceptions, 2 defensive fumble recoveries, and, while on the special teams, has tied the record for most tackles at 12. The team will need all of these guy playing thier best and helping in any way they can as the defending Super Bowl Champions, The Pittsburgh Steelers, travel to meet The Carolina Panthers in the Bank of America Stadium this Sunday @ 1:00pm.

Delhomme might Stayhomme

2006-12-07T14:52:00.001-05:00

After suffering from a sprained thumb in last Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Eagles, the Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme has missed 2 consecutive days of practice. Rest is needed if Delhomme intends to keep his attendance up. Thus far he has started 59 consecutive games and coach John Fox would love to see him this Sunday against the New York Giants, who's defense is doing great this year. When asked about the treatment he was receiving for his injury, Delhomme described it as being a guinea pig. Ice is being applied regularly and the several different machines in the training room are being used liberally. "Whatever they want to do, if we can get it to work, then we will get it to work." he was quoted as saying.

Chris Weinke is ready to step up if Jake cannot make Sunday's game against the Giants stating "I have been in this offense for 5 years now. I know what I need to do with the football and I will be excited if the opportunity arises." Starting is not about preparing for the other team though, as they are preparing for you.

Delhomme might Stayhomme

2006-12-07T14:52:00.000-05:00

After suffering from a sprained thumb in last Sunday's game against the Philidelphia Eagles, The Carolina Panthers Quarterback, Jake Delhomme, has missed 2 consecutive days of practice. Rest is needed If Delhomme intends to keep his attendace up. Thus far he has started 59 consecutive games and Coach John Fox would love to see him this Sunday against the New York Giants, who's defense is doing great this year. When asked about the treatment he was receiving for his injury, Delhomme described it as being a guinea pig. Ice is being applied regularly and the several different machines in the training room are being used liberally. "Whatever they want to do, if we can get it to work, then we will get it to work." he was quoted as saying.

Chris Weinke is ready to step up if Jake cannot make Sunday's game against the Giants stating "I have been in this offense for 5 years now. I know what I need to do with the football and I will be excited if the opportunity arises." Starting is not about preparing for the other team though, as they are preparing for you.

What Are You Doing Tonight?

2006-12-03T20:04:00.000-05:00

Don't have plans tonight? Make plans with the Carolina Panthers as they take on the Philadelphia Eagles. With the Eagles severely missing Donovan McNabb who is out for the rest of the season because of a torn ACL, this should be a good win for the Panthers. And if the Panthers want to stay up with the New Orleans Saints which already won today, they will definitely need this game.

Carolina's Hoover Explodes On Field,Not Sidelines

2006-11-16T19:08:00.000-05:00

If you read Ed Hardin's assessment of the Panthers' Brad Hoover in Greensboro's News-Record.com, you might be imagining that Hoover was recruited from an asylum. Come to think of it...part of his popularity with Carolina fans has been his rabid intensity. What had them cheering Monday night, however, was just his gaining ground -- and a TD -- just when we really needed them, to win a game over the Tampa Bay Bucs that should never have been in jeopardy.

Well, Brad did turn 30 over the weekend. Happy birthday, Hoooooover!

Panthers Should Ease Back Above .500

2006-11-06T19:35:00.000-05:00

It's a safe bet that the Carolina Panthers did not spend their bye week on rest and recreation. Neither players nor fans are satisfied with our current status at 4-4, especially when our last game with the Dallas Cowboys should never have been in the L column. Was it any comfort that the Cowboys got some of their own back at the hands of the Washington Redskins, leaving Dallas also at 4-4? Not really.

So let's look ahead. Next game: the Tampa Bay Buccaneers come onto our turf for Monday Night Football. That one should be a safe bet, too.

Madden: Carolina Panthers a work in progress

2006-10-26T15:07:00.000-04:00

Read Scott Fowler's interview with John Madden and enjoyed Madden's comments on the Panthers and on their upcoming game with the Dallas Cowboys. Overall he seems to think our Panthers are "playing well inconsistently, if that makes sense." It does to me.

I think we've got a chance to be more consistent than the Cowboys next Sunday, when they'll be trying to adjust to Tony Romo as their QB in his first-ever NFL start.

A Very Merry Christmas From The Panthers

2006-10-05T17:31:00.000-04:00

For OVER 10 years now, the Panthers have assisted families through the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services' Christmas Adopt A Family Program. Holiday meals/groceries, clothing for each family member and new toys are provided by the Panthers. All of this takes place at a neighborhood fire station.

Have the Carolina Panthers Got a Streak Going Yet?

2006-10-01T19:58:00.000-04:00

I for one think we'll see a lot more than two wins in a row, now that the Carolina Panthers are on the prowl again. Maybe some of the preseason hype had our Cats distracted. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints seemed to be playing over their heads, and actually came into today's game with a perfect three wins in a row.

This was the start of swinging the NFC South pendulum back to where it belongs. I hope you had tickets to be right there in Bank of America Stadium to see Steve Smith catching everything in sight and DeShaun Foster running 43 yards to try to put the game on ice after the two minute warning. Turns out that ice was a little slippery, and the Saints fought back with an 86-yard run and even a 2-point conversion. But we (well, Nick Goings) pounced on the onside kick and the end result was a victory for Carolina, 21-18. Roarrrr!

Excuse Madame, can you tell the future?

2006-07-10T14:07:00.000-04:00

I like the whole crystal ball theory better than anything I have been reading on the net lately. People are talking about the Miami Dolphins like they might do something next year and of course we can’t ignore the Dallas Cowboys and their smart-mouthed celebrity Terrell Owens. All of it makes me want to hurl. All the Dolphins have is Randy Moss and Terrell Owens hasn’t benefited any of the teams he has attempted to destroy. Some NFL teams need to be reminded that hiring a super star doesn’t always pan out the way you want it to.

Take the Philadelphia Eagles. Can we not learn from each other’s mistakes in this league?

Panthers Predictions Sound Good

2006-06-19T16:36:00.000-04:00

I’ve been reading that the Carolina Panthers will be in the Super Bowl in Miami next February 4^th. Okay!! Plus, the people with the crystal ball have also picked our opponents as well: the Denver Broncos. They’re calling it “the Battle of the Jakes” in honor of Jake Delhomme and Jake Plummer. Sounds like a great match-up, and best of all—we win!

Um, just like we won Super Bowl XL like Sports Illustrated said we would last year? I think I’d rather get tickets and see for myself.

Panthers in Prescription Trouble

2006-05-28T18:31:00.000-04:00

I read a story on ESPN about a doctor who pled guilty to conspiracy to provide a number of Carolina Panthers players with steroids. It says he prescribed the hormones to players who wanted to bulk up and it was found that the players filled the prescriptions multiple times at the same pharmacy. This doctor has also been implicated in the death of a woman who received an experimental intravenous treatment from him before her death.

Another article on the subject says Todd Steussie filled his prescription for testosterone cream eleven times in eight months. Testosterone is known to be a steroid and is banned by the NFL. I cant believe I missed this story when it came out. I hate to see our players mixed up in drug scandals. It’s a disgrace. Read the stories:

ESPN - http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2456904

CBS - http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/03/29/60II/main683747.shtml

Draft Day Results for the Carolina Panthers

2006-04-30T16:59:00.000-04:00

My favorite pick from the draft is fifth rounder Jeff King. He is excellent at breaking through the opposing team’s defenses to catch passes and at making holes for the run. He is just what this Carolina Panthers team needs; a body between the runner and the defense, and a tight end who can put some touchdowns on the board.

Any thoughts about the 2006 NFL draft?

2006-04-10T12:47:00.000-04:00

The 2006 NFL schedule is out and it looks good and challenging for the Carolina Panthers. We will play the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals for the first time ever so this will be a record setting season almost automatically when you consider all the firsts we can accrue. I am really excited about the draft and want to know what positions you think we should be shopping for and who you think could fill what roles.

Rebuilding again and it’s a little scary

2006-03-19T14:15:00.000-05:00

I am really concerned about this Carolina Panthers team. I predict we are going to see a lot of changes over the next few months. Sixteen players have become free agents at the same time and that could spell trouble for this team. Hopefully we can put together a stronger team for the 2006 season. Who do you think we should be chasing and why?

I’m Jealous of Traveling Panthers

2006-02-12T23:16:00.000-05:00

The Carolina Panthers didn’t get a trip to the frozen north for the Super Bowl but a few of them are headed to the temperate shores of beautiful Hawaii. That in one event I would love to see. Does anyone have any spare Pro Bowl tickets?

We’ve Got Delhomme and You Don’t

2006-01-22T00:47:00.000-05:00

The Carolina Panthers are set to battle the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship on Sunday for the right to play in the Super Bowl. We slaughtered the Giants and we beat the Bears. The Seahawks got here so they are a great team, but they don’t have Jake Delhomme and this is his year. We started this post-season as a wild card but soon proved to be the stronger team against formidable opponents. The Seahawks don’t stand a chance.

Who’s the Best? Panthers! Panthers!

2006-01-09T19:51:00.000-05:00

The Panthers running game has been on fire for the past two games. Boasting 451 yards in two games, the Carolina Panthers rushing offense is unstoppable. Our running backs have to give credit to the offensive line that made the holes and attacked the Giants rush defense aggressively. We completely shut out the Giants on Sunday and as they were attempting a comeback Marcus Washington intercepted Eli Manning’s last pass of the game for the win. Out played the Giants looked disappointed in the loss. Eli Manning had his worst game ever and was plagued by turnovers forced by the Panthers fiery defense.

Delhomme and Deshaun Destroy Falcons

2006-01-03T20:06:00.000-05:00

The Carolina Panthers won their battle against the Atlanta Falcons 44-11. It was a fitting end to the season and after our win over the Cowboys this team looked unstoppable. The great feats of Jake Delhomme had a lot to do with our success on Sunday, but the offense deserves the credit for the win because they dominated the Falcons from right out of the gate. The line was blocking for the run and wide receiver Ricky Proehl caught some great passes from Delhomme including one for a touchdown. Deshaun Foster ran 70 yards for a touchdown breaking the Panthers previous record.

Cowboys Beat Panthers in Final Seconds

2005-12-28T17:46:00.000-05:00

Well the Panthers missed a golden opportunity to secure a playoff spot and the Cowboys took it away. Jake Delhomme had a good game of finding his receivers and making few mistakes. We forced a fumble on a kick off and recovered the ball in a bold combination of moves by Jermaine Hardy and Sean Tufts that resulted in a touchdown. None of it was enough as the Dallas team quickly answered with an explosive drive ending in a rushing touchdown by Julius Jones. After our comeback the Cowboys pulled out another last minute win by scoring a touchdown with 24 seconds to go. Atlanta is going to be even tougher to beat so the Panthers had better be prepared.

Nail Biting End of Season Run

2005-12-20T19:50:00.000-05:00

Well we clinched first place with grace and style on Sunday. Our game against the New Orleans Saints in Baton Rouge was near perfect. We allowed only10 points and scored 27. The Saints were a strong opponent yet pose little threat compared to the Dallas Cowboys whom we meet on Saturday. They lost their game against the top rated Redskins so hopefully we can capitalize on defense like the Redskins did and foil the Cowboys passing game. We need to be worried because the Cowboys have been pretty lucky this season and have pulled out some fourth quarter miracles

Bucs’ Shadow Falls on Panthers

2005-12-12T18:31:00.000-05:00

The Carolina Panthers lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 10-20 on Sunday. The Bucs converted on third down way more than the Panthers and the Bucs held on to the ball for four more minutes than the Panthers. Overall they were the better team and the dominant force for the entirety of the game. The Buccaneers rushing game way overshadowed ours 114-82. This came as the shocking end to our five game winning streak and the Panthers poor performance really disappointed many fans. Tampa had a lot riding on this game, more than we did, and they were fired up because of it.

Foster, Delhomme and the Panthers Defense

2005-12-05T18:43:00.000-05:00

The Carolina Panthers 24-6 win over the Atlanta Falcons was a joy to watch. DeShaun Foster was responsible for 180 yards of total offense and out of that, scored a pair of touchdowns and rushed for 131 yards. Our defense was effective against the run and that’s saying something because the Falcons are considered the NFL’s number one rushing squad. Jake Delhomme was on his game throwing two touchdowns and plenty of passes to Steve Smith, who racked up 65 yards and a touchdown. The defense however deserves the award. They sacked Michael Vick five times and picked off two interceptions holding him to 18 completions for the game.

Carolina to Face Some Pretty Heavy Hitters

2005-11-30T18:24:00.000-05:00

The Carolina Panthers schedule is getting heavy in the next few weeks. We will be playing all playoff contending teams with Atlanta, the Buccaneers, the Cowboys and then the Falcons again. We will see the New Orleans Saints again as well and they beat us once this season already. The Panthers win against the Buffalo Bills is definitely a good start to a tough end of season schedule. We got pretty fired up late in what looked like it was going to be a loss. Michael Gaines scored the winning touchdown with just over two minutes left in the fourth quarter off a pass from Jake Delhomme. After our loss to the Chicago Bears and the Panthers slow start against the Bills, it looked like we were losing our edge. But it does look like we have the strength and the talent to win some of these next conference match ups.

Bears Hug Jake Delhomme

2005-11-22T12:21:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately our Carolina Panthers lost to the Chicago Bears on Sunday and it wasn’t pretty. It is not that we played badly, we just couldn’t break the Bears defensive line nor could we avoid their perfectly executed pass rush. Overall we were beaten early as it became evident that we were not going to get into the end zone. The Bears goal line was well protected by Brian Urlacher and Adewale Ogunleye. Jake Delhomme was sacked eight times by the brutish Bears defense and we just couldn’t stop them. Now is the time to put this behind us, as fullback Brad Hoover says. We have to focus on the Buffalo Bills now and forget we ever played the Chicago Bears.

Bollinger QB for the Panthers?

2005-11-16T14:36:00.000-05:00

The Panthers pounded the New York Jets this weekend 30-3. The Panthers defense was working hard and the Jets under Coach Herm were playing pretty well all the way into the fourth quarter. We rushed for a lot of yards and the Jets held Steve Smith to just 34 yards. It wasn’t enough because in the last quarter Ken Lucas got two key interceptions, Stephen Davis got his touchdown and Chris Gamble got his own interception fueling the Panthers fire. Will Witherspoon had to get some of that Brooks Bollinger action too with his own interception that resulted in his first NFL touchdown ever. Overall the Panthers looked awesome winning their sixth game in a row.

Carolina Panthers Losing to Miami

2005-09-28T12:12:00.000-04:00

The Carolina Panthers rolled over for the Miami Dolphins, losing by a field goal in the fourth quarter, making it a 27-24 victory for the Dolphins. Steve Smith had a great day with three touchdown passes from Jake Delhomme. But they still could not hold back Miami in the fourth, with Lance Schulters intercepting the ball with 2 minutes to go, setting up Olindo Mare for the winning field goal—it was a very exciting two minutes for the Dolphins.

Carolina’s next game will be against the Green Bay Packers at home on Monday Night Football. Carolina should come out ahead in this game but you can never count Brett Favre out.

Carolina Panthers Win Over New England

2005-09-20T11:54:00.000-04:00

Carolina Panthers beat the New England Patriots 27-17. Who knew the Panthers could come in to this game looking for respect after losing to the New Orleans Saints on their opening day? For a team to come in and score in every quarter, it makes it hard for the other team to have a chance. The next game for the Carolina Panthers is against Miami Dolphins in Miami, Florida. Both teams are coming into this game being 1-1 so both teams want to get a jumpstart on having a winning season. Too bad there can be only one winner and one loser.

Panthers, Get Ready for a Long Season

2005-09-13T10:38:00.000-04:00

Carolina Panthers hosting the New Orleans Saints and losing 23-20. Some people were saying, how can the New Orleans Saints keep their mind on this season after what happened to the Saints’ home town of New Orleans? After seeing the game on Sunday--their mind and their heart was all in the game! This is only the beginning for the New Orleans Saints; they face a very long season ahead of them. The Saints’ next game will be against the New York Giants on Monday night football. This will be a tough game but the Saints have the talent and half the nation cheering for them this season, and I’m one of them. It’s got to be tough not playing at home and always on the road. That is what I call heart. If you would like to make a donation, please visit http://www.redcross.org/.

He is Back

2005-06-07T19:39:00.000-04:00

DeShaun Foster did a great job in place of Stephan Davis until he was injured as well. In fact the Panthers had a tough time running the ball in general last season when both star running backs went down.

The good news is that Davis is back and ready for action. After what seemed to be like a career ending surgery, Davis's progress is putting smiles on the faces of his coaches. Davis as of now is working on his cuts which are something he was very good at. Hopefully he will be back in full force.

OLB Thomas Davis

2005-05-26T15:24:00.000-04:00

- excerpt from ESPN.com

Davis redshirted in 2001 and started four games at safety as a redshirt freshman in 2002 before taking over as a fulltime starting OLB for the Bulldogs as a sophomore in 2003. He had a breakout season in 2003 with 138 total tackles, eight tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and one interception. As a senior in 2004, Davis was moved back to the DS position and earned 1st team All-American and 1st team All-SEC. He missed one game (Kentucky) due to injury in 2004 but still led the Bulldogs with 81 total tackles and finished with five TFL, three sacks and one INT. Davis is a 'tweener DS/OLB prospect that could play either position in the NFL. The way it looks now, after showing up at the combine at 230 pounds and running the 40-yard dash in the high 4.6's, Davis is headed the OLB route.

Panthers trade P Sauerbrun

2005-05-19T18:53:00.000-04:00

- excerpt taken from the official site of the Carolina Panthers

Carolina has traded punter Todd Sauerbrun to Denver in exchange for punter Jason Baker and the Broncos 2006 seventh-round draft choice. Sauerbrun spent four years with the Panthers and ranks as the team's career leader in gross average and punts inside the 20. Baker, a four-year NFL veteran, compiled a 38.8 gross average and 31.6 net average in 2004 while playing for Kansas City, Indianapolis and Denver.

Trade gone, maybe

2005-05-17T19:26:00.000-04:00

Carolina Panthers Todd Sauerbrun has been one of the hot topics on possible trade negotiations recently. The current trade is set to the Denver Broncos for a seventh round draft choice in 2006. Apparently a few issues, among them money issues as always, are keeping the deal from going through. The Panthers have a few salary cap issues to look out for and Sauerbrun and his agent David Canter are trying to figure out the best way at restructuring Sauerbrun’s next few years contract.

MINICAMP MAYHEM:

2005-05-12T17:08:00.000-04:00

- from FOXSports.com

The coaching staff was very pleased with the performance of WR Drew Carter, who missed last season with a knee injury. Carter has good size and speed and could improve the depth at that position. The team may still be in the market for a receiver with experience, but Carter looks like a strong candidate to be a fourth or fifth receiver. . . .

Rookie Evan Mathis is going to get a chance to compete with Tutan Reyes for the starting RG job. Mathis worked behind Reyes at minicamp. But he seemed to pick up the offense quickly and could be a legitimate challenger by training camp because he has more athleticism than Reyes. . . .

Tom Rouen has the edge over Steve Cheek in the battle for the punter job. Cheek missed the minicamp with a leg injury. Rouen has average leg strength, but the coaching staff likes his consistency and ability to punt directionally.

Drew Carter

2005-05-03T20:05:00.000-04:00

Being the fifth round draft choice from 2004, many people overlooked Drew Carter due to a knee injury that kept him out for the complete 2004 season. Now with minicamps starting around all franchises, Drew Carter has been re-instated and joined practice with full force. Many of the veteran players in the squad were unaware of his quickness.

Carter originates from Ohio State. He tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a summer session and was not able to come off of the IL until recently.

"The thing about it that people forget is that torn ACLs don't really take your speed away. Speed doesn't come from your knees. It comes from your hamstrings. It comes from your quads, your hips. So basically, my speed never went away. It was just a matter of getting my knee strong."
- Drew Carter

DRAFT DISH:

2005-04-28T18:31:00.000-04:00

- from FOXSports.com

The selections of OLB Thomas Davis, RB Eric Shelton and DT Atiyyah Ellison could mark the beginning of a subtle overhaul. The team said it will wait to decide where to play Davis, a safety in college, but it's most likely he'll move to linebacker. That could be a sign SLB Mark Fields won't be back. Davis' experience in coverage makes him a good candidate for the strong side, and his athleticism and speed likely will allow him to move to the top of the depth chart. The addition of Shelton makes it clear the team isn't sure how well RB Stephen Davis will recover from knee surgery. The plan is to use Shelton behind DeShaun Foster, but Shelton, a power runner, is likely to get plenty of carries because Foster is a speed back and the team doesn't want to overwork him. Ellison is a bit of a project. The plan is to have him ready to start in 2006, in case DT Brentson Buckner retires. The team used three picks to add depth to the middle of the offensive line. Evan Mathis, the top pick of the three, can play both guard and center.

Undrafted College Free Agents

2005-04-26T20:52:00.000-04:00

- from the official site of the Carolina Panthers

The Panthers have agreed to terms with seven undrafted college free agents, including South Carolina linebacker Marcus Lawrence and Purdue wide receiver Taylor Stubblefield (right). Lawrence collected 156 tackles in two seasons for the Gamecocks, while Stubblefield ranks as the NCAA Division I-A all-time leading receiver. Carolina has also signed veteran free agent wide receiver Eugene Baker.

Sam Mills

2005-04-19T18:54:00.000-04:00

- from the official site of the Carolina Panthers

Carolina Panthers linebackers coach Sam Mills, who had been diagnosed with intestinal cancer in August 2003, passed away Monday morning. He was 45. Mills played 12 seasons in the NFL, the first nine with New Orleans and the last three with Carolina. After retiring following the 1997 campaign, Mills joined the Panthers coaching staff in 1998 and had been the team's linebackers coach since 1999.

Preseason Schedule:

2005-04-14T19:42:00.000-04:00

August 13 WASHINGTON
August 20 at New York Giants
August 26 at Cleveland
September 1 PITTSBURGH

Pantherin

2005-04-10T19:41:00.000-04:00

The NFL draft is coming onto us with quickness and hopefully the Panthers are ready with some kind of course of action. The Panthers begin with the 14th and 45th picks.

Right now, the Panthers are setting up for a Caravan tour to roll across Carolinas. The caravan is carrying members of the team, the TopCats, and Sir Purr across the state in an effort to forward fan participation.

COMEBACK STORY:

2005-04-05T19:25:00.000-04:00

- from FOXSports.com

WR Steve Smith is expected to be cleared to take part in the minicamp in late April after missing almost all of last season with a broken ankle. There's always concern about a speed receiver coming off that kind of injury, but Smith has worked hard in his rehab, and he should come back strong. Smith is at his best when he feels he has something to prove, and the chance to show he's as good as ever gives him plenty of motivation. With Muhsin Muhammad gone, Smith will be more important than ever to the offense. Keary Colbert will start on the other side, and he's still a work in progress. Smith is QB Jake Delhomme's favorite target, and he'll get plenty of opportunities. Even with that heavy load, the team would like to use Smith in the return game because he's the most explosive player on the roster.

Mike Wahle

2005-03-29T20:14:00.000-05:00

Formerly associated with the Green Bay Packers, Mike Wahle recently was inducted into the family of Panthers. This offensive lineman was not always at this position. Actually, early on in his career he wasn’t just playing football. Wahle started as a pitcher and quarterback. He played these positions until he shot his arm and focused strictly on football. Wahle focused on playing left guard for the Packers and is glad he will stay at that position with the Panthers.

"It's difficult to come from another team and have to learn the new terminology and plays. To be able to stay at left guard, at least initially, will make the learning process for me that much quicker. There's nothing technique-wise that I'm going to have to work on. It's all about learning the terminology and jelling with these guys. Later on, if I do have to make a switch, it's something I'll be able to do, but initially I'm glad I can stay at the same spot from a learning standpoint."
- Mike Wahle

TopCats Selected

2005-03-22T18:53:00.000-05:00

- from the official site of the Carolina Panthers

On the same day that the Carolina Panthers started getting ready for the 2005 season with the beginning of their offseason strength and conditioning program, other preparations for the new year also took place with the selection of the 2005 TopCats. The squad features 35 members who range in age from 18-36 and whose careers are in a variety of professions, including banking, engineering and teaching.

Smith Centered

2005-03-17T15:15:00.000-05:00

It has become Steve Smith’s time to shine without asking for it. Smith has become the primary receiver for Carolina after an unexpected turn of events. Muhsin Muhammad, who was the current primary receiver for Carolina, has moved over to the Chicago Bears.

"Moose has passed the torch. With him passing it to me, I'm going to accept it. That's part of the business. You have to step up, and I'm willing to and I'm going to. There isn't any added pressure. I'm just going to play. That's what I like doing anyway."
- Steve Smith

On top of all this pressure that Smith believes to be non-existent, he has the reality of whether he is completely healed or not. Smith has received a ‘thumbs up’ from the doctors after healing a broken leg. This is still different than facing the line on the field.

Steve Smith

2005-03-12T20:25:00.000-05:00

-from the official site of the Carolina Panthers

With a successful rehabilitation behind him, Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith is facing another big task. Former teammate Muhsin Muhammad signed with Chicago two weeks ago, making Smith the primary receiver in Carolina. That reality was a little shocking to Smith at first, but now that he has had time to digest it, he says he is ready to tackle it head on.

Karl Hankton Resigned

2005-03-08T15:23:00.000-05:00

Wide Receiver Karl Hankton has been resigned to the Carolina Panthers after unrestricted free agency status. He has been the special teams captain from 2002-2004.

Hankton joined the Panthers during 2000 as a free agent, after having his start with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1998. He officially began his football career at Trinity College. After six years in the NFL, Hankton is stacking up very nice stats with the Panthers.

Various Stats:

66 special teams tackles
73 games with one start
17 catches for 236 yards

Draft Buzz

2005-03-03T14:23:00.000-05:00

- from FOXSports.com

The team has needs at RT, RG, RB, WR, FS and DT, but it will use the early part of free agency to address some of those spots. Whatever needs aren't filled will become the focus of the draft. But it's a safe bet the team will draft at least one offensive lineman to groom for the future, and there's a good chance a running back will be selected. Tackles Alex Barron (Florida State) and Oklahoma's Jamall Brown would be good fits on the right side if they last until the 14th pick. The team has concerns about DeShaun Foster's durability and Stephen Davis' ability to make a full recovery from microfracture surgery. The team isn't likely to spend big money on a running back in free agency, but it could address the position in the second or third rounds of the draft.

Highlights

2005-02-08T18:59:00.000-05:00

The Carolina Panthers finished off 7-9 in the official NFC standings, putting them in third place. They had an alright season, but this team needs to do a little work to come together for next season. A lot of this falls onto the shoulders of Jake Delhomme.

Former backup quarterback for the Saints, Delhomme is on his sixth season. He has proved an important asset to the Panther offense. Right now, his record is as shows: 3886 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions.

Defensive end Mike Rucker should be getting back to stacking up his sacks. Defensive tackle Kris Jenkins has been out for most of the season with an injury. Being next in line beside Rucker, this has provided a lack of blocking prowess. Jenkins comes back in soon and this will not be as much of a factor. This has been the first season in a while that Rucker has not come above double digits.

Manimal

2005-01-27T17:50:00.000-05:00

Julius Peppers has proved to be an extreme up and coming star to the Carolina Panthers. Native born Carolina resident, Peppers has been selected by the Committee of 101 as a recipient of a 35th Annual NFL 101 Award.

From the official site of the Carolina Panthers

The Committee of 101 announced today the award winners of the 35th Annual NFL 101 Awards, the nation's only awards event dedicated exclusively to the National Football League. One of the six recipients was Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers, who won NFC Defensive Player of the Year.

Peppers posted 11 sacks in 2004, bringing his three-year total to 30. He intercepted two passes, one 46 yards for a touchdown and another 97 yards. Peppers scored another touchdown on a fumble return, and forced four fumbles.

Other winners were: Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts (AFC Offensive Player of the Year), Donovan McNabb of the Philadelphia Eagles (NFC Offensivle Player of the Year), Ed Reed of the Baltimore Ravens (AFC Defensive Player of the Year), Marty Schottenheimer of the San Diego Chargers (AFC Coach of the Year) and Jim Mora, Jr. of the Atlanta Falcons (NFC Coach of the Year).

"While the NFL has many individual players and coaches who turn in magnificent performances each year, the six recipients of the 2004 awards stood out among the very best," said Bill Nelson, Chairman of the Committee of 101. "We're thrilled to celebrate the return of two multi-year winners. We're also anxious to introduce four new NFL personalities to the 101 Awards Club, which we feel is the finest sports awards event of its kind in the nation."

The Absence of Smith

2005-01-19T16:40:00.000-05:00

Everyone wonders what happen to the Panthers, why didn't they make it to the playoffs? They almost did, but does any one remember in game one of this past 2004 season for the Carolina Panthers.

Well in case you forgot, Steve Smith broke his fibula against the Green Bay Packers. I feel that his abesence has played a big part in the Panthers 7-9 season.

Notes on Smith
The first time in the preseason game he scored on a 52-yard reverse against Jacksonville.

The first time he in a regular season game he returned the opening kickoff 93 yards for a touchdown.

The first time in a postseason game, he came one yard shy of a touchdown after a 70-yard reception, and the following game he scored the winnning touchdown in OT.

The first time in a Super he scored the Panthers' franchise touchdown.

Weird Season

2005-01-09T17:21:00.000-05:00

This season in the NFL was one a lot of people didn't expect. Just wonder why it took half a season to get the Panther on the winning track. I guess so question are better left un-answered.

Foxhole: Secret of our success

2004-12-27T19:37:00.000-05:00

from the officail site of the Carolina Panthers

On injuries: Keary Colbert: ankle. It was not a concussion on Ricky (Proehl), just a hard hit that (caused) him to sit out a little bit.

On the extent of Colbert's ankle injury: I don't know any more now that I did yesterday. We'll just evaluate him come Wednesday.

On Colbert's production this season: Keary has played very well for us. I think he's a mature young man that really prepares himself like a professional. I think that's a big reason for his success. He's been well schooled. He runs excellent routes. He knows a lot of different positions for us. He's a very smart football player and a very competitive guy. He's somebody that we're glad we selected and look for many more good years to come.

On the Panthers not giving up when their record was 1-7: I think everybody involved had their hand in it. The young guys getting schooled up quickly. The veterans helping them along the way. The coaching staff remaining encouraging. Just trying to get better. I think it's been a lot of hard work by a lot of people.

On the chemistry between quarterback Jake Delhomme and wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad: When you have success, that kind of thing has to develop. We made some adjustments early in the season as far as different people in there. They've got something special going, and I think that's an important reason why we're having the success we are and the success we had yesterday.

On defenses not being able to take Muhammad away: Moose is a very high-level competitor. He challenges himself every week. I think our coaching staff does an excellent job of not allowing that to happen as much as possible. They either design ways to run or design ways to get the ball to other people when that occurs. The combination of Jake and Moose being pinpoint in what they're doing as well as the coaching staff of doing a nice job of not letting that happen.

On disguising Muhammad as a blocker: If they put eight men in the box, then they are in some kind of one-deep coverage, so it's hard to double. They have to double the running game.

On Delhomme's improvement over the last eight games: Other than get better, his decision making has sped up. I think our protection has been better. We are executing better. It's 11 guys being on the same page, so you look more like a well oiled machine than a clunker. This is his second year as a full-time starter. He just keeps getting better. There was a lot of talk early in the season when we struggling, wondering if he was a one-hit wonder. I don't think anybody here, both players or coaches, ever doubted his capabilities. I think he's showing everybody that now.

On if he wishes he could have back any players that are on injured reserve: You can't look back. You can't look ahead. You've got to deal with the present. I would like to have them all back. The reality is you can't have any of them back, so I don't spend much energy on it.

On taking things one game at a time: All of our focus is on the last regular season game. You could almost view that as a playoff game. None of those other things are possible unless we take care of business this Sunday, so all of our focus will be on this Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.

On New Orleans: They beat Tampa last week. They've won three in a row. They are playing good football right now, and it will be a tough contest against a division opponent here at our place. We expect their best, and I expect our best.

On the Saints turning their season around: They've been similar to us. They were at a low spot, and every team in this League goes through that, believe it or not. It's no fun coming in on Monday after a loss. You put a lot of time and effort into it. It's no fun for anybody, the fans, players, coaches or owners. You've just got to keep swinging the sword. They have done that and have fought themselves back into it. We expect it to be a very, very competitive game come Sunday.

On his friendship with New Orleans head coach Jim Haslett: We coached together (in Oakland). Jim's a good friend and somebody that I respect. Except on Sunday, he's going to be trying to beat our brains out and we're going to be trying to beat his brains out. That's what we do. But I have a lot of respect for Jim and a lot of respect for what they've done this year.

On the death of Reggie White: It's very tragic. I didn't know Reggie real well, but the times I talked to him and the times I was around him, I have a lot of respect for him, both on and off the field. I know he impacted this organization and players that are still on this football team. Our heart and prayers go out to his family. I know this is hard this close to Christmas. But he's in a better place, and we just hope that everybody's doing fine that's here with his family.

Panthers pick on Rams

2004-12-12T20:22:00.000-05:00

from NFL.com

The Carolina Panthers continued their rampage by recording a team record six interceptions against St. Louis quarterback Chris Chandler in a 20-7 victory Sunday at Bank of America Stadium. The victory, Carolina's fifth straight, improves the Panthers record to 6-7. They travel to Atlanta to play the Falcons December 18.

Seattle 23; Carolina 17

2004-11-01T19:09:00.000-05:00

Well it is November now and Halloween is over. With the masks off and our tummies aching after too many trips to the Lombardi candy bowl we have to face some of these Cardiac Facts:

1) We do not have an offensive staff or philosophy that is going carry this team forward. (To spell it out, Dan Henning must go)

2) Our Defense is not as good as we all think

3) We have lost our ability to be special on special teams

4) We have only had a 'dominating' running game 1 out of 10 seasons. We are better known for injured runners.

5) Steve Smith is sorely missed

The Cardiac Cats of last season were indeed a fraud in more than just stealing a name. We had some good breaks and the players believed enough to play to the bitter end and we made the Superbowl because of it. Yet here we are back to being the Patsy Panthers, and what is worse is that this team is playing at a level inferior to the 2001 1-15 team. Our offensive schemes are too dependant on certain players and injuries have just made us an easy win for any team we face. While losing Jenkins is critical to the front four, the loss of belief in the system by the players is why nobody on the field can tackle a room full of mannequins.

At 1-6 the playoff hope is now just an outside mathematical probability. The Panthers should still play to win every week for we need to find out who needs to stay and who needs to waived. But what I am going to expect this off-season is some changes to the staff. I still am fully behind John Fox and Marty Hurney. But I am going to expect them to face the facts this off-season and make the changes needed to build consistency into this program, pride in building on a legacy each season by the players and finally a team that will one day truly deserves it's own nickname....

Panthers insider.com

DeShaun Foster left us in awe

2004-09-27T21:26:00.000-04:00

DeShaun Foster played a fantastic game, and showed us that he can perform to the kind of standards that we set for the Panthers this year. J. Delhomme played a great game but we really need to work on the turnovers or else we wont be so lucky and we will loose on turnovers. Lets get pumped up for next weekend and I hope we got the rest on the bye this week because we are going to need it for the undefeated Falcons. I know for a fact we are just as capable if not more capable this year, we just need to come together as a team and get some wins. Lets stop the Falcons in their tracks!

Preseason for nothing?

2004-09-15T16:26:00.000-04:00

After shutting out all the teams in the preseason, all looked well, but the the opener against the packers is was just the opposite. We were playing sloppy out on the field and it would lead us ultimatley to defeat. Our O line led Delhomme to rush his passes therefore causing incomplete passes, an interception, and 2 fumbles. This is unacceptable for a team that was the underdog that made it to the Superbowl last year. This weekend against the Chiefs we need to redeem ourselves or there is no telling what kind of slum we could get ourselves into. Now lets get'em Panthers!

Cuts

2004-09-06T22:11:00.000-04:00

Eddie Jackson and Terrance Shaw were released before the cap off date when they needed to have 53 players maximum. On a better note, we are leading the whole entire league by being the only team who won all their preseason games! We have really proven ourselves to the nation so lets keep it up guys and lets get us a ring this time when we get to the SuperBowl!!!!!

Redemption

2004-08-29T16:37:00.000-04:00

After loosing the extremely close Superbowl earlier this year, beating the Patriots 20-17 after Adam Vinatieri missed a 56 yard field field goal.. The same Adam Vinatieri who led the Patriots to a victory during the Superbowl. Not only did we redeem ourselves from the Championship, our pre-season has been perfect so far and this is season is looking fantastic. I've been watching the Panthers for years, and I havn't seen a season with this much anticipation. I can't wait to see what other suprises our Panthers have for us! WOOO GO PANTHERS!

WOO Lets make the streak 3!!!!

2004-08-21T12:36:00.000-04:00

We have won our last 2 games and we are looking really great so far and ...We are back to the superbowl matchup and we are going to make it a good one. This should be a really exciting game to see the Superbowl all over again! Even though this is still pre-season, we have to show the rest of the world that we didn't get to the Superbowl by luck. Now lets get out there and beat the Patriots! GOOOOOOO PANTHERS!

Lets get another great season started!

2004-08-14T17:24:00.000-04:00

Even though we came home empty-handed last year, Its still a feat in itself to bypass all the odds and make it to the Superbowl. With Jake Delhomme ready to be back in action alone with all the rookies, we dont need to hope for another great season, its just a matter of time. Ofcourse we are also happy for the return of Mark Fields after being out all season while toughly battling Hodgkin's disease. Lets get back to the Superbowl and lets start of by beating the Chiefs today!

Panthers Schedule

2004-07-28T17:20:00.000-04:00

Here's the new 2004 Carolina Panthers' Schedule from NFL.com:

2004 Preseason
Date Opponent Time/Result
Aug. 14 at Washington 8:00 p.m.
Aug. 19 New York 8:00 p.m.
Aug. 28 New England 8:00 p.m.
Sept. 2 at Pittsburgh 7:00 p.m.

2004 Schedule
Date Opponent Result
Sept. 13 Green Bay 9:00 p.m.
Sept. 19 at Kansas City 1:00 p.m.
Sept. 26 Open Date
Oct. 3 Atlanta 4:05 p.m.
Oct. 10 at Denver 4:15 p.m.
Oct. 17 at Philadelphia 1:00 p.m.
Oct. 24 San Diego 1:00 p.m.
Oct. 31 at Seattle 4:05 p.m.
Nov. 7 Oakland 1:00 p.m.
Nov. 14 at San Francisco 4:15 p.m.
Nov. 21 Arizona 1:00 p.m.
Nov. 28 Tampa Bay 1:00 p.m.
Dec. 5 at New Orleans 1:00 p.m.
Dec. 12 St. Louis 4:15 p.m.
Dec. 18 at Atlanta 8:30 p.m.
Dec. 26 at Tampa Bay 1:00 p.m.
Jan. 2 New Orleans 1:00 p.m.

All times are Eastern

New Panther Blog

2004-07-22T14:29:00.000-04:00

Hey folks, just getting up and running here for now. I'll have regular updates soon though, so come back!