Top 10 Greatest Carolina Panthers Moments of All Time – Rank
Since their NFL debut in 1995, the Carolina Panthers have built a rich history filled with incredible plays, legendary performances, and unforgettable moments. From dramatic playoff wins to franchise-defining plays, the Panthers have carved out their identity in the league through grit, talent, and passionate fan support.
Here’s our Top 10 Greatest Carolina Panthers Moments of All Time – Ranked:
10. Steve Smith’s Walk-Off Touchdown in Double OT (2003 Divisional Playoff vs. Rams)
In a game that epitomized drama, wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. caught a 69-yard touchdown pass from Jake Delhomme in double overtime to beat the St. Louis Rams. It was the longest game in Panthers history and solidified Smith as one of the most electric playmakers in NFL playoff lore.
9. Panthers’ First Ever Franchise Victory (1995)
It took five tries, but on October 15, 1995, the Panthers recorded their first-ever win as a franchise against the New York Jets. This win set the tone for a franchise determined to prove itself, laying the groundwork for future success.
8. Cam Newton’s MVP Season (2015)
Quarterback Cam Newton became the face of the NFL during the 2015 season, putting up 45 total touchdowns en route to winning the league MVP. His charismatic play and leadership lifted the Panthers to new heights and captivated fans across the nation.
7. Julius Peppers Drafted (2002)
When the Panthers selected Julius Peppers second overall in the 2002 NFL Draft, they found a generational talent. Peppers went on to become the franchise’s all-time sack leader and one of the most feared defensive players in the game.
6. The Cardiac Cats’ 2003 Playoff Run
The 2003 team was known for nail-biting finishes and last-second heroics, earning them the nickname “The Cardiac Cats.” Their run to Super Bowl XXXVIII included multiple overtime thrillers and solidified their reputation as a team that never quits.
5. Luke Kuechly Wins Defensive Player of the Year (2013)
Drafted in 2012, Luke Kuechly quickly became the heart of Carolina’s defense. In 2013, he won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award at just 22 years old, marking him as one of the best linebackers of his generation.
4. Jake Delhomme Leads 17-Point Comeback in Debut (2003)
In his first game for the Panthers, Jake Delhomme came off the bench in the second half to lead the team to a stunning 24-23 comeback win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. That performance helped launch one of the most magical seasons in franchise history.
3. Beating the Cardinals 49–15 in the 2015 NFC Championship Game
The 2015 Panthers were dominant, but their performance in the NFC Championship Game was next level. They dismantled Arizona 49–15, with Newton accounting for four touchdowns. That game sent Carolina to Super Bowl 50 and remains one of the most complete team performances ever.
2. Sam Mills’ “Keep Pounding” Speech (2003)
Before a playoff game in 2003, linebacker coach and former player Sam Mills gave the now-iconic “Keep Pounding” speech while battling cancer. His words became the spiritual foundation of the franchise and the team’s official motto, resonating with players and fans to this day.
1. Reaching Super Bowl 50 with a 15–1 Record (2015 Season)
No moment shines brighter in Panthers history than the 2015 season. Carolina finished 15–1 and steamrolled through the NFC. Though they fell short in Super Bowl 50, that year remains the franchise’s pinnacle of success, with Cam Newton’s MVP, a ferocious defense, and a team that captured national attention.
Final Thoughts
The Carolina Panthers may still be chasing their first Super Bowl win, but their journey has been filled with incredible highs, legendary players, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’ve been a fan since 1995 or joined during the Cam Newton era, there’s no denying the passion and pride that comes with cheering for the black, blue, and silver.