Before the Panthers came to town, North Carolina was primarily Redskin country. One could argue the Panthers have had a better run over the last 10-15 years, but a loyal Redskin fan base still exists. That base and a Panther organization with a bright future behind rookie QB Cam Newton led to a sold out Bank of America stadium on Sunday. Fans saw the home team capture their second win of the season behind another strong performance from Newton.
The Panthers and Redskins are a study in opposites when it comes to their QB situations and for the first time in a long time it’s Panther fans enjoying the upper hand. While the Redskins were making a switch at QB, the Panthers have been enjoying Cam Newton’s success, which in his rookie year is helping to fill seats and raise pre-game spirits. Tailgate parties are once again a pre-game celebration in Charlotte. However, fans are not celebrating restrictive ticketing policies. With Panthers’ games becoming a tough ticket the secondary market makes it possible for many fans and their friends to attend. Close to 200 fans signed up with the Charlotte Street Team to tell ticketmaster, “I bought it. I own it.”