The 2013 edition of the Carolina Panthers re-invigorated a slumping franchise and created a new giant in the NFL. Although the team fell short of capturing the Lombardi Trophy, they invigorated a fan base and proved that they now belong in the circle of the NFL’s elite franchises. They did this with a hard-nosed, old-fashioned brand of football that was built through a great defense and a ball control offense.
Much of the credit goes to third year coach Ron Rivera, who earned the moniker “Riverboat Ron”, for his gutsy play calling and first year GM Dave Gettleman, who brought in the personnel required to play winning football. As the season has come to a close, Panthers fans are chomping at the bit for the start of another campaign, to see their young team continue to grow.
A large part of the Panthers’ success can be attributed to their suffocating defense. This unit, ranked second in the league, was bolstered by a terrifying defensive line composed of Greg Hardy, Charles Johnson, and rookies Star Lotuleilei and Kawann Short. Hardy, nicknamed “The Kraken,” finished 3rd in the league with 15 sacks and provided countless entertaining quotes to the media throughout the season. Lotuleilei and Short each graded out among the top 20 defensive tackles in the league, an extremely impressive feat for rookies.
The greatness of the D-Line was reciprocated by the linebacking corps. Led by second year man Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis, they made opposing teams find it nearly impossible to run against the Panthers. After the trade of Jon Beason to the Giants, the Panthers relied on Chase Blackburn and rookie A.J. Klein to fill the 3rd linebacker position, which both did with competence. Kuechly, a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, made plays from sideline to sideline every game and finished with 156 total tackles. Davis, the first player to recover from three ACL reconstruction surgeries, was a rock for the defense all season.
The Panthers began the season with a huge question mark regarding their secondary. If this team were to have success, unproven players would have to step up. These previously unproven players certainly answered the call, led by Mike Mitchell. Mitchell, a former second round pick of the Raiders, was given little chance to succeed in Oakland, but stepped up as a leader of the Panthers and made bone-crushing hits throughout the season. Also, safeties Robert Lester and Quintin Mikell were playmakers throughout the season. At Corner, Rookie free agent Melvin White from Louisiana-Lafayette made big plays, such as his interception for a touchdown against Atlanta, while veteran Drayton Florence provided stability and leadership. A position group once deemed a liability was a strength for the Panthers this season.
The Panthers' offensive success revolved around the continued development of Cam Newton. Newton, who struggled in his second year, matured as a quarterback and a leader. He ran less and spent more time in the pocket, distributing the ball to Steve Smith, Greg Olsen, Brandon LaFell, and Ted Ginn. Instead of sulking on the sidelines, Newton was always seen encouraging teammates and communicating with coaches, which is a positive sign for the future of the franchise. It will be exciting to see him continue his development next year.
Running Back was a strength for the Panthers this year. DeAngelo Williams reinvigorated his career, running behind somewhat of a patchwork offensive line. Fullback Mike Tolbert was also a bright spot as a running, receiving, and blocking threat. His hard running and versatility have made him a fan favorite in the Carolinas. GM Dave Gettleman will have a tough decision to make about whether to keep talented, but oft-injured back Jonathan Stewart in the offseason. Overall, the Panthers can take many positives from their run game this season.
The Panthers receivers, given the resources that they have, performed admirably this season. The biggest surprise was the resurgence of Ted Ginn, whose game winning score versus the Patriots and key catch versus the Saints were two of the most clutch plays of the season. Also, veteran Steve Smith, regardless of age, continues to be an effective player, all while providing the heart and soul for the franchise. Brandon LaFell had some bright moments, but was plagued by a couple key drops. It will be interesting to see if Gettleman opts for a receiver in the draft.
Overall, Panthers fans should be encouraged about the direction of the franchise. 2013’s NFC South Championship was no small accomplishment, but next year the team and fans alike will look for more. If the team adds the necessary pieces in the offseason, there is no reason to not expect the Panthers to make a Super Bowl run.
