The Carolina Panthers, who started playing in 1995, have created a rich history filled with thrilling victories, improbable comebacks, and defining moments. While the franchise is still seeking its first Super Bowl title, several games stand out as truly exceptional, showcasing the team’s resilience, star power, and ability to defy expectations.
While their loss to the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XXXVlll must be mentioned, as it was one of the greatest games ever played, this list will focus on some of Carolina’s biggest victories. Here’s a look at 10 of the most significant and exciting games in Panthers history.
The Carolina Panthers 10 Greatest Games in Franchise History
10. Sept. 25, 2011: vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (W 16-10)
While not a playoff game, this monsoon-soaked victory is remembered as the first win of the Cam Newton and Ron Rivera era. The Panthers overcame a first-half deficit and torrential rain to earn a gritty victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, signaling a new, more promising chapter in franchise history.
9. Nov. 18, 2013: vs. New England Patriots (W 24-20)
A Monday Night Football classic, this game ended in controversy and triumph for the Panthers. With Carolina leading by four, Luke Kuechly was initially flagged for pass interference in the end zone against Rob Gronkowski on the final play, which would have given the Patriots a chance to win. However, the flag was waved off, securing a memorable victory over Tom Brady and the Patriots.
8. Jan. 17, 2016: NFC Divisional Playoff vs. Seattle Seahawks (W 31-24)
Seeking revenge for previous playoff losses to the Seattle Seahawks, the Panthers exploded to a 31-0 halftime lead before holding off a Seahawks comeback attempt. While Seattle made it close in the second half, Carolina’s early dominance ensured their place in the NFC Championship.
7. Dec. 20, 2015: at New York Giants (W 38-35)
This game secured the Panthers’ 14-0 start to the 2015 season, setting an NFC record for most consecutive wins to start a year. A dramatic finish saw Graham Gano kick a last-second 43-yard field goal for the victory after the New York Giants had rallied to tie the game.
6. Jan. 5, 1997: NFC Divisional Playoff vs. Dallas Cowboys (W 26-17)
In just their second year, the Panthers shocked the reigning Super Bowl champion Dallas Cowboys in their first-ever home playoff game. Carolina’s defense forced Troy Aikman into three interceptions and limited the Cowboys’ potent offense, announcing the expansion franchise’s arrival as a legitimate contender. This victory earned them the right to host the NFC Championship.
5. Oct. 18, 2015: at Seattle Seahawks (W 27-23)
This pivotal Week 6 victory during the Panthers’ 15-1 season saw Carolina rally from a fourth-quarter deficit to win in one of the league’s toughest road environments. The game featured Newton’s “dabbing” celebration and a game-winning drive capped by a Greg Olsen touchdown catch, solidifying the Panthers’ early-season success. Defeating the Seahawks let the rest of the league know that Carolina’s hot start was no fluke.
4. Oct. 21, 2018: at Philadelphia Eagles (W 21-17)
In a remarkable regular-season comeback, the Panthers overcame a 17-0 fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Philadelphia Eagles. Newton led the charge, including throwing the go-ahead touchdown to Olsen. This win showcased the team’s late-game tenacity, a trait they often demonstrated during the Rivera-Newton era.
3. Jan. 18, 2004: NFC Championship at Philadelphia Eagles (W 14-3)
Carolina traveled to Philadelphia and delivered a defensive masterclass, beating the favored Eagles on the road, 14-3. The Panthers’ defense registered five sacks and four interceptions, with rookie Ricky Manning Jr. snagging three picks. This game punched the Panthers’ ticket to their first-ever Super Bowl appearance.
2. Jan. 24, 2016: NFC Championship vs. Arizona Cardinals (W 49-15)
The Panthers reached Super Bowl 50 by dominating the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Championship game hosted in Charlotte. Newton was exceptional, accounting for four touchdowns in a game where everything seemed to go right for Carolina. The Panthers built an insurmountable lead, controlling the game from start to finish.
1. Jan. 10, 2004: NFC Divisional Playoff at St. Louis Rams (W 29-23 2OT)
This double-overtime thriller is widely regarded as the greatest game in Panthers history. Facing the high-flying St. Louis Rams, Carolina battled through a back-and-forth contest. After the Rams tied the game late and forced overtime, the Panthers’ John Kasay missed a potential game-winning field goal.
Then, on the first play of the second overtime, quarterback Jake Delhomme connected with Steve Smith on a legendary 69-yard touchdown pass, known as “X-Clown,” sealing the Panthers’ trip to the NFC Championship Game. Smith broke away from the Rams’ secondary and raced to the end zone, securing a victory described by then-coach John Fox as unlike any he had seen.
Main Image: Jason Getz-Imagn Images
