Carolina Panthers Tickets

The Carolina Panthers had a big bounce-back year after two consecutive disappointing seasons, but were stunned by the visiting Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the playoffs.

The quarterback play was a disaster in the playoffs, as Jake Delhomme looked like he belonged in a Pee Wee League the way he was so careless with the football.

It was a disheartening way for the season to end, especially with many believing the Panthers were the team to beat in the NFC playoffs.

If they can get the quarterback situation straightened out, they should be just fine. They found a nasty, one-two punch at running back with DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart which could prove to be the backbone of the offense for years to come.

It also doesn't hurt that they still have star wideout Steve Smith making big plays all over the field. Yet again, the problem is they need someone to be able to throw the ball to him.

Carolina will take on the AFC East and NFC East divisions this year, which will certainly prove a bit challenging. That means the Panthers will have to play one of the most improved divisions in the NFL and also one of the toughest.

It also doesn't help that the Panthers will get their bye in Week 4, which is really early. In the first five weeks of the season, the Panthers will play three of the four NFC East opponents on their schedule.

As for more bad news, Carolina will have to face Minnesota and Arizona as its two random opponents on the 2009 schedule. The powers that be certainly didn't do the Panthers any favors with their schedule.