Get excited Panther fans because the NFL playoff season has begun. The wild card round is over and the Cardiac Cats are set to play their first game this Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks in the divisional round. Whether you have been a die-hard panther fan for years or you are just tuning in, we’ve got the scoop on what you need to know:
Seattle Seahawks Vs. Carolina Panthers
The game this Sunday is sure to be intense considering how well these two teams have been playing this season. Seattle is currently riding the momentum from their win against Minnesota in the wild card round, in which Minnesota’s kicker Blair Walsh missed the 27-yard field goal that sealed their fate. On the other hand, the Panthers were undefeated all the way up until week 15 and their steady record makes them a formidable opponent for the Hawks. Here’s what we’ll be looking for this Sunday:
Panther Players to Watch
Greg Olsen: The Seahawks have had issues covering tight ends in previous games and we’re hoping that tight end Greg Olsen can once again be a huge contribution to the Panther’s success. Last time the Hawks and the Panther’s faced off, Greg Olsen caught seven interceptions for a total of 131 yards. Needless to say, Olsen took advantage of the Seahawks less-than-stellar defensive coverage.
Kawann Short: The defensive tackle was named the NFC defensive player of the month recently and it is clear that he deserves the title. In the last five games, KK Short had five sacks and two forced fumbles. Not a bad way to end his amazing season. The Hawks will be trying their hardest to slow him down this Sunday.
Seahawk Players to Watch
Kam Chancellor: When the Panthers faced off against the Hawks last year in the divisional round, Kam played a major role. Not only was he amazing in coverage, but he also ended the game with an 80-yard interception on Cam Newtown that seemed to take the air out of the Cardiac Cats. However, if he and the rest of the team fail to stop Olsen, the Hawks might be done for.
Bruce Irvin: The linebacker could make all the difference against the Panthers. Seven of his 25.5 sacks have been against Carolina and he seems to always be on fire when he plays against them. Will a repeat be in order?
Where to Watch
There are plenty of places in Charlotte to watch the game. If you don’t mind a packed crowd, check out The Doghouse located directly across from Bank of America Stadium. A less crowded (but still popular) is Bonz Smoke & Taphouse which has 35 TVs for you to watch the game. You can expect a lot of Panther fans to be at both places. One of the great things about North Carolina is the amazing fan base. Panther fans are so abundant these days that Panther jerseys are the most popular jersey being sold in the NFL.
If you don’t want to go back to work after Sunday’s game, we don’t blame you. Consider setting up your own virtual office with Your Office Ballantyne. Our virtual office packages are customized to fit your needs, whether that includes a professional receptionists answering your calls or access to a private meeting space (or both), Your Office Ballantyne has the perfect virtual solution that you need.
