By: Reece Funderburk, Contributing Writer
The Carolina Panthers are enjoying the best start to a season in franchise history and have gone from a laughing stock in the media’s eye to legit Superbowl contenders. There have been plenty of key moments and highlights; however, these are the top five moments that have defined the run the Panthers are currently on and represent the adversity this team has faced.
- Josh Norman’s one-handed interception to seal the game against New Orleans
In what was supposed to be considered an easy win with New Orleans Quarterback Drew Brees out for the game, the Panthers were looking to continue their win streak at home. Backup quarterback Luke McCown was having none of it though, keeping the Saints close throughout the game and leading them down the field for a game winning score. Panthers’ cornerback Josh Norman, though, showed how dominant he has become this season and sealed the game with a one-handed interception in the end zone.
- Cam Newton’s extended dance against Tennessee
Looking to go 9-0 on the season, the Panthers extended their dominance with a 27-10 romping of the Tennessee Titans on the road. The Panthers dominated the game from the very first snap, and Quarterback Newton continued his MVP warranted season with a record-setting rushing touchdown late in the fourth quarter. It was his celebration dance, though, in the face of a few Titans players that became the topic of discussion. Cam “dabbed all over them folks” to the tune of a 9-0 record.
- Newton ripping down the Packers banner in Bank of America Stadium
It what was considered the second biggest challenge of the season, the Panthers had to deal with the Green Bay Packers coming to Bank of America Stadium. On his way out for warmups, though, Newton spotted a banner supporting the Packers hanging off Bank of America stadium. The former #1 pick was having none of it, ripping down the banner and claiming “it just didn’t make sense.” After there were possible charges to be filed against Newton for stealing the sign, the Panthers paid $500 to replace the banner for the fan. Seriously though?
- Newton’s record day against the team from Washington
I refuse to say the name of the NFL team in Washington, D.C. for various reasons, but the Carolina Panthers had no issues beating them for a 10-0 record. Newton would have a record day, throwing for a career high in touchdowns with five in a single game and setting a new franchise high with most in one half. From start to finish, the Panthers controlled the game and remained perfect and flying high to the best single season start in team history.
- Comeback win over the Seattle Seahawks at Seattle
It hadn’t been done in the last fifteen years, but the Panthers managed four 80 yard drives in one game at Seattle in a nine point comeback effort in the last four minutes of the game. In the game that put them in the national spotlight, the Panthers managed a win against the defending NFC Champions on the road, something that never happens. Proving to the world they were a team to respect, they have since shown that was no fluke and are continuing to make teams pay that don’t respect them.