In today’s society of the latest always being the greatest, making a proclamation calling the Carolina Panthers the NFL’s next dynasty is almost seen as trite. But when you delve below the surface, you’ll see that this seemingly outlandish claim actually has some merit. Here are five reasons why this year’s Super Bowl representatives for the NFC have the makings of a modern-day NFL dynasty.
5. Youth At Key Positions
Getty ImagesIt’s hard not to be in love with the talented youth on this Panthers roster. Of course Cam Newton (26) and Luke Kuechly (24) stick out as the best of the bunch, but key cogs on both sides of the line of scrimmage such as Star Lotulelei (26), Kawann Short (26), Kony Ealy (22) and Trai Turner (22) are all extremely young as well. This nucleus has a chance to keep the Panthers competing for Super Bowls over the next handful of years.
4. Kelvin Benjamin MIA
Getty ImagesSpeaking of youth and talent that’s been somewhat forgotten, it seems like forever ago when Kelvin Benjamin tore his ACL and was declared out for the 2015 season. Well, the Carolina offense has still found plenty of success without the 24-year-old who showed loads of potential as a rookie. Just imagine what this team will look like next year with the 6-foot-5, 245-pound target back in Cam Newton’s arsenal.
3. Elite Leadership
Getty ImagesTo piggyback off of the previous reason, just go back in time to the preseason when Kelvin Benjamin got injured. Find one person who said the Panthers would be “just fine” or “would still win the division” and I’ll call them a liar for you. Ron Rivera kept this team together, all pulling in the same direction toward a common goal. Call him Riverboat Ron all you want, but this gambler is a true leader of men.
2. Domination In The Trenches
Getty ImagesOften the most overlooked aspect of football, the offensive and defensive lines for the Panthers have been absolutely magnificent all season long. Cam Newton’s been sacked just twice in the playoffs after going down 33 times during the regular season. The Panthers’ 44 sacks were the sixth-highest total in the league, while their 24 forced fumbles (T-3) and 24 interceptions (1st) can be significantly linked to their stellar defensive line. This team is built from the inside out, and that’s how champions are forged.
1. Cam Newton’s Ascension
Getty ImagesIt’s impossible to talk about the Panthers’ success without giving Cam Newton his due. With 45 total touchdowns (35 passing, 10 rushing) and just 14 total turnovers this season, Newton truly came of age after signing his much maligned offseason contract extension. Those critics are likely picking feathers out of their teeth after eating a ton of crow this season, and anyone still denying Newton’s importance to this franchise has a serious problem understanding how football works.
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