Panthers have big opponents in NFC to get through to return to Sundby
By "Bucky Katz"

Playoffs 2142 (Chicago) - In many ways, the Carolina Panthers season was a success.

They won two more game than last year. They have two legitimate MVP candidates in QB Bob McCoy and HB David Lloyd, key components of a high scoring offense. They may not have the best defense in the league, but they do have a solid front seven and two speedy corners to slow opposing offenses.

But it all comes down to the playoffs once again.

In the first round, the Panthers take on the division rival Bears, who had an identical 11-3 record and are much improved. Should they get over that hurdle, then their recent playoff nemesis Washington looms, with the Skins juggernaut once again going 14-0 this season and expected to get past Minnesota in their first round game.

“That’s the NFC for you,” Panthers GM “Trader” Lee Remley commented when asked about the Panthers playoff opponents. “It’s a tough road to even get to represent our conference in the Sundby.”

Carolina fans, buoyed by the offseason changes on their team and some even disappointed the team lost three games, hope the team can get through their conference this year.

“We’re tired of the Skins winning every year,” one Panthers fan wearing a McCoy jersey said, his face covered in Carolina blue and silver paint with a Panthers emblem prominently displayed on his cheek. “It’s our turn now.”

Time will tell.