Sportswriters love to prove how spot on their recent predictions might be, but immediate afterglow says ‘Yes Panthers, you can sip a little on moral victory,’ ‘cuz finale with Rams set up a great weekend of NFL games. The Drake Maye legend continues, but in Charlotte- and I arrived in ’95, just like Panthers- I was astonished at the *consistent* VERY loud, start to end, raucously demonstrative wave of home crowd cheering at BOA Stadium.
All is forgiven #MrTeppers$. Pretty much, and definitely on with the upgrades$. What a gut-check! and ALL credit due to Stafford and an *amazing* catch by Ram TE Parkinson, who high-pointed the catch and tip-toed into end zone.
One of customers I discussed game with had an awww, too bad! for Panthers, I said au contraire, dynamic as hell moment for franchise rebooted. About Bryce Young’s fifth year option, GM Dan Morgan’s got this. 1/12/26 Sunday I wore classic Tommy Bahama blue shirt with flowers and Hugo Boss blue suit, couldn’t get away with Panther jersey. You know, public eye.
A TEAM loss, a Franchise Turning Point sounds legit
With the totality of good performances- and national TV audience watching the early game- that Panthers produced was cathartic for most, a blessing for many, but its was also a litmus test of alllll the Collective We kind of believed was possible. Well, at least after 5-12 last year with three stalwart performances that hinted at change, plus an absolute flag-replanting year by Ejiro Eviro’s Derrick Brown-led defense as best practices was all season, reliable Goodness. Shout out to Tre’von Moehrig, free agent $$ well-spent.
The difference in second season of Head Coach Dave Canales and Bryce Young, was a confident 21/40, 264 yards/ TD afternoon, plus a 16 yd. run/TD himself was valid proof of arrival. Offensive line was again profound, giving up just two sacks. Young FROZE a Ram defender before rolling into end zone amid three more, he is not afraid of contact. Leadership? Satisfied with Panthers efforts? Absolutely, so many producers (Tommy Tremble, 3/22!), Bryce’s scramble TD and T-Mc and Coker production, where Bryce *stuck* it on them, everyone should take a bow.
What team- besides Rams Stafford with Adams-Nacua (24/42, 295 yds., 3 TD/1 int) that I warned about in blog- wouldn’t want to throw to those two? Jaylen Coker may never shake the ‘free agent find’ tag, but he’s a bona-fide NFL receiver now- nine catches for 134 yards, TD, and a beaut of a 52 yarder, full time by end of season, he’s given notice as a regular target. T-Mc was a ‘Really?’ #8 pick by Morgan who tore it up admirably all year (70 catches, 1014 yards, 7 TDs), is almost certain to be Offensive Rookie of the Year.
Yes, that casts shade on hard-working XL (Legette), but lets say its a discussion for another day. Very much like how Rico Dowdle says getting fewer carries at end of year might have some influence regarding his free agent location next season. Tough sledding, when his contract provided $1M bonus for over 1,350 yards from scrimmage, but thanks for a very good year in any case. Definitely something Morgan-Tilis part of football operations will be working on.
Even the (two) uncool punt flubs by Etienne didn’t specifically hurt Panthers in game, with Stafford’s 4th down miss-fire in resulting Rams series a defensive turning point in game. Gotta admit, I can only imagine, as did announcer Greg Olsen, what 17-yr. vet QB Stafford might have said to Coach McVey about his choice of pass vs. run for first down. I was super-surprised at Bears coming off the floor to beat Packers.
https://www.espn.com/nfl/team/stats/_/name/car/carolina-panthers There is NO sin in congratulating the players and organization for a profoundly appreciated season. Wow! does it raise some expectations. One often hesitates to question matters of Belief, here in the Buckle on the Bible Belt. The ROAR of crowd at 34-31 game, it came through my 50-inch screen as Truth. Just sayin.’
No tearing down any goalposts like the college kids either.
Panther players, HC Dave Canales, Owner David Tepper, fans are positive about ATL for a little minute, Thanks! and enjoy #4 seed at home vs. LA Rams and Matt Stafford-Puka Nacua. My first check of year means I’ve matched Social Security income; took a 22% hit on Medicaid, and a gas heating bill (655 sf/ 2 BR) was over $100 for early December, we’ll see how January works.
Yes, great tux, quality ‘tribute to Frank’ story about untied bowtie worked great.
I wore this new midnight-blue tux to work on 1/1/26 because I didn’t find anyplace to show it off NYE. Left bowtie undone, told people it was ‘tribute to Frank.’ Customer opined that “Message is you partied all night, rolled out to work in same as slept” *maybe* a shower stuff of our Younger Selves Memories. I said yes, lets go with that & Tuxedo Attitude. Fun day. Two suits to very intense entrepreneur was heck of start. Loved Landon’s ‘Not quite as tight as Connor McGregor’ standard.
“Message is you partied all night, rolled out to work in same as slept” *maybe* a showerstuff of our Younger Selves Memories. I said yes, lets go with that. Fun day. Two suits to very intense entrepreneur was heck of start. Loved his ‘Not quite as tight as Connor McGregor’ standard. 1/1/26
Air quote all you want- NFC South Division winners
Carolina Panthers 16-14 loss in constant downpour in Tampa Saturday wasn’t fatal, and yes, 8-9 is still Winners. They were sub-.500 before with 7-8-1 record during run of three division titles. All calculations come around to ‘It depends, because anything can win NFC South.’ That was true before Brady years, ATL also 8-9, catch you next year.
This Carolina Panthers team has some chops now. Obviously beat Rams earlier this year here, DC Ejiro Eviro’s defense indeed revolves around Derrick Brown’s return to middle of all the action, his sacks and pressures are relentless. Does anyone question Tre’von Moehrig’s $51M free agent salary, based on LOTS of run support (#2 on team) tackles? Rozeboom too. Rico Dowdle picked up $1 million bonus for topping 1,350 yards from scrimmage.
Yes, a quick Thanks! to Falcons. Cousins still thinks he rates a full time NFL QB role, Penix is still the plan in ATL, but Cousin’s been in right place for big contracts before. If GM Dan Morgan and VP Tilis hadn’t already picked up Year 5 of ‘Big Game Bryce’ based on higher expectations, its gonna come up. Is a substantial extension due- for core players as Panthers have notedly done all year- when ‘production’ of sub-200 ypg. and turnover free leadership, plus playoffs- earned obscene $$$, like Prescott or Drake Maye $$ will be? Baker got 3 yr/$100 mill last year…
That’s how lots of seasons end
Derrick Henry’s face when Loop’s kick went so crazy wrong, that’s how lots of seasons end. Since last years finale against ATL, when Bryce Young blew up for 5 TDs, that experience Carolina fans carried forward all season, might now be called for. Three fairly big wins- Dallas for starters, then Green Bay, Rams, plus clutch game here vs. Tampa Bay- the fannies are back. Best practices have prevailed throughout Panther organization. Sorry about Renfro.
The payoff on $20 FanDuel bets for beating 6.5 Ws and taking NFC South division weren’t huge, but still better than relative sharp stick in the eye Henry got, when Ravens previously perfect FG kicker missed a last-second attempt against Steelers that cost them AFC Central crown. Everyone’s other favorite player, Christian McCaffrey, missed another 1000-1000 season with only 924 receiving yards.
Life goes on in Charlotte, despite trumps “We’ll run Venezuela” utterances. Will there be any panic suit selling in January to disturb-juice my microeconomy? (Jack Victor-Peter Millar is from Canada, just sayin.’) I’m several hours more productive on my writing time blocks in Week 3 of work schedule; reacquiring personal goals, like anticipation of getting a 3 mi. ride on nearby Booty Loop, actually counts. Doing thirty-three hour weeks in January, I’ll continue to get my $$ share on that front, with Spring weddings and proms not so far away.
Getting a fist bump from Dad last night, because I nailed putting a 42L, charcoal-gray First Suit righteously on his enthused-at-great-suit feeling son, that still counts for me.
Two AE/PR persons from Hornets and Panthers came through shop Friday- gold BUZZ CITY jacket was tip off- before Panthers loss in rain Saturday, or now 13-23 Hornets tight 122-121 loss in Milwaukee on 1/2, a 112-99 win over the Chicago Bulls, and super-sized surprise 124-97 thumping of OKC. We discussed why ‘Loserville’ monicker may fade slowly- and gave credit to #MrTeppers$ for his other futball operation- and now productive NFL path of ‘Let football people handle the football operations’ non-meddler.
Some still want to remember him as Real Bad, but ‘back in’ vs. backed in regarding playoffs is a brighter POV. Steve Miller as an Overseer in aftermath of Venezuela is an absolute worst case for anything POV.
Hornets Still Building
Both NBA Hornets and NFL Panthers have restructured management, spent judiciously, and put strong operational people in charge- Executive VP Jeff Peterson with the Hornets, the Panthers have a well-meshed trio of super-positive HC Dave Canales-GM Dan Morgan-VP Brandt Tilis for two years. Both now feature a young core player group, unlimited by past seasons poor iterations and never sniffing of PLAYOFFS?!- say it like classic Jim Mora if you want.
The ‘Core Four’ Hornets brought to Charlotte in 2026 NBA draft was greatest shot of talent since, well, ’96-’97 team swapped almost everyone out- rights to Kobe Bryant for Vlade Divac, remember?- and new coach Dave Cowens helmed a 54-28 team. (My prediction was defensive intensity by Cowens influence and 52 wins.)
Last actual playoff year – 2016, the longest such streak in league. (OMG! even the Wizards?)
Ryan Kalkbrenner was a 4x Defensive Player of Year in Big East– Use him like that, the Rim Protector they’ve lacked since maybe Mourning, and Diabate is a quality asset, coach the heck out of him! Rookie-yet-comfortably-already-described as one of premier 3-point shooters/playmakers, Kon Knueppel is every bit as advertised re: smart player, checks all the boxes. Sion James, lets play defense because we can, very glad to see Miller at full speed. Melo- I guess we still agree to disagree about always using that ‘2022 All Star’ tag, like ‘Hall of Fame Coach Hubie Brown.’
Its ‘Big Game Bryce’ time in first rounder with Stafford and Rams, who they beat here in Charlotte mid-season https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZuPz6owCPw Somewhere between last weeks 192 yards and club record 448 yards, Young was excellent Week 13, so more TMc-Coker, Legette? several RB receivers, with their solid ground attack (116 avg.) keeping things closer to 18 ppg pace they’ve shown is legit- 10.5 points is the spread so turnovers by Rams again are at a premium. Stafford-Puka not doing high-order damage to Panthers is hopeful math. Can Ransom provide run support like Ohio State safeties should AND cover/tackle? Counting on secondary – could Horn-Puka be a showdown?
Whole lot of Derrick Brown & Panthers DEEfense! and yes, Ejiro Eviro has re-proven his defensive expertise when given the personnel. Perhaps he’ll be considered for current head coaching gigs available, but now, its the Rams. Ball control with Panthers well-regarded offensive line long play-time drives? Could that, and selectively great passing, stand up to one of NFL’s premier offenses twice? The best defense is Matt Stafford not getting extra time to sling it to productive receivers like Nakua.
The USA taking military action at this level, I almost shudder to think of Greenland, but football playoffs with Panthers is a nice difference this sunny Tuesday. Getting a fist bump from Dad because of 42L, charcoal-gray first suit that fit righteously on his enthused-at-great-suit feeling son, that still counts for me.
Compared to most of two years home alone with a screen, back on the suit-selling and chatting with many is good by me.
While knocking it out in suit-selling punctuated first week back in retail, its also super-affirming how many former customers have recognized I gave them desired great service in 2023, good to have me back.
Nothing I saw in 15 min. clip for Carolina Panthers-Saints when I got home- 5 sacks and only 81 yds. rushing by defense- despite 11 penalties, I couldn’t see how they lost. Guess you had to see the total badness, its not usual ‘We wuz robbed!’when NFL is checking things out.
In fact, it was playing for first place, NFL level defense, and Panthers still need 2-of-3 wins down the stretch. My season projection, and $20 worth of FanDuel (-450) on the proposition, 9-8 and in position to take NFC South, was a small gamble- most fans know thats often enough here.
The Carolina Panthers are looking at a Bucs sandwich now, with Seahawks between, to put down new markers. Staying over .500 is a must, Division Winner! is the organizational grail. I didn’t figure losing both games to Saints, buuuut OMG! if NFL investigation is actually happening.
I tell-remind customers they haven’t heard squadoosh about #MrTeppers$ for most of two years. Somewhere before getting the Tilis-Morgan-Canales ship moving, he paid attention to best practices advice of, “Let your football operations people do what they do.” He is not a meddler, and despite record bad 2024, Ejiro Evero back as DC is direct result. -GShork 12/16/25
Employment, Productive Microeconomy, a Sweet Writing Schedule
Having known before Thanksgiving that I’d have a good bill-paying retail job in SouthPark, I’ve commented that it was cool to be manager’s #1 draft pick when department had an opening, at least not going to Raiders. He hired me four years ago too, as COVID was ending. As previously noted, I believe the economy is way different now than ’21-’22.
As a career salesperson and journalist-Writer, my communications skills are A-1 and flexible. I’ve always been killer determining what people want-need in helpful manner- I get paid on how well I accomplish that. Working the closing schedule (2-9:30), I can automatically schedule two to four hour blocks for writing weekly, go for bike rides on 3 mi. Booty Loop nearby, grocery shop, and have lunch meetings- its two miles to work!
That ‘opportunity’ came directly to me, unsolicited, as straight a bolt of good fortune as this 68 yr. old BoomerwithAttitude and Romance Writer could’ve imagined.
Reading regular negatives in LinkedIn about ageism (obviously true) and just how lousy the job market ’24-’25 is for grads, getting a re-do after my ‘doing something else’ post-COVID decision in ’23, thanks, I’ll take it.
Lucky? I maintain highly qualified- you’ll appreciate the difference. I am king of the Hugo Boss blue suit, appreciate the Jack Victor and Canali lines, and will discuss the difference between a sports coat and an $875 unstructured jacket if you don’t already know.
I cheered for the gent who tried on, literally, every blue-tinged jacket in the department, *except* a reddish-purple blue one, just said, No. ‘No, what?’ wifey asked. ‘No, honey?’ cracked me up. All agreed a beauty of a jacket, but he had no interest.
Guys who say yay or nay, great when they try things on. A younger, maybe thirty guy becoming CEO of a company after selling two previous ones, really wanted an image suit. Does he know how to pull the trigger when shown the goods? You betcha.
Right now, its like Maverick’s ‘target rich environment.’ Oh, open till 10:00…
Am I insulated from what’s about to be a tougher microeconomy for many? I know there’s a 22% hack in my Medicaid starting in January, but I’m effectively earning about $30/hr. on two weeks this first pay period; I’m effectively doubling my Social Security income. I still have $151 of SNAP benefits, which I really needed this time last year.
I try to keep a bag of groceries in the car for less fortunate Others, even some frozen meat, but no Pampers. Never let it be said you’ve done less than the least possible when its crunch time. When tossing a couple bucks, I believe $3 is way better than 2.
I stand strong on being a BoomerwithAttitude, and since the boost I felt as a Precinct Judge (D) on Nov. 4, and whats happened across the country until now, I’m still confident in my microeconomy, my democracy, and those Carolina Panthers grading solid B+.
The pen is a classic because I made it with Dad in Tampa long ago. I still chuckle at his ‘worst ever worked with’ assessment- I got the ultimate one-off souvenir I wanted.
Something short and pithy needs to be said about changes to Charlotte lifestyle in three weeks- this probably isn’t that. This is All Souls Day Nov. 1st, with all of Kirk’s great front yard cemetery stuff already put away. Man was giving away FULL SIZE chocolate bars! Loads of kids coming by to TorT, and legend tells of possible adult beverages. Beyond a tall, talking witch robot, and grabbing a full-size bag of M&M peanuts, the highlight was a LARGE, noisy-active, mobile! spider that young Batman *really* didn’t like.
Reality of Halloweenfire pit with a dozen adults on next street over – I opined ‘we wouldn’t be seeing any tear gas in Myers Park’ during chat about Border Patrol coming- it didn’t mean *something* couldn’t happen. A major duplex other end of block, and another biggie build on nearby Forest Dr. E.- no workers since Saturday. Just sayin.’
Yes, two weeks from ‘Hey, Mr. Shorkey…!’ I’m waiting (decently) patiently for paperwork to clear, so I can get trained and back in the groove in the Men’s Suits Dept. at Nordstrom’s. Several years ago I was an expert reporter on microeconomy from there, using my unique POV to judge the rebound from COVID-19 ravages by how many wedding suits, proms, and renewal of general business suit buying I handled in ’21-’22. I’m going to do that again starting shortly.
My first vaxx was March 18, 2021. Coming back from grocery store, I went into a Novant location at top of my street, a supervisor said, “Lets get you stuck,” when I was officially Cat. 5 (not 65) in NC. Twenty-six minutes from parked car to back to house, how could I ever feel closer to being guaranteed of living? 97% efficacy, meaning it walks the talk about being super-effective, at the time I called it the greatest service imaginable.
For more than six-eight months at Nordstrom from Fall ’21, all employees wore masks, most of the customers did too. We were aware of personal distance, in an industry when/where trust was at a premium. I mostly wore one, though in an empty dept, I went without. I left retail in 2023, the great awakening or whatever, dissatisfaction with all previous norms vs. feeling Special.
I use that Attitude in lead chapter to non-fiction, half-finished, projected $2.99 wisdom online book (working title) ‘DGUYDJ: Don’t Give up Your Day Job,’ which is what *everyone* tells you/any other dreamer along the way. The ‘Welcome to the Real World’ 15 pc. Graduation card-puzzle I’ve got going on Etsy, that’s going to be killer for $8.95 (+ $2 shipping) this spring. Yes, work the microeconomy people.
I’m 5x vaxxed now, and 100% as thankful a particular previous manager left *two* VM while I was in Durham last weekend, doing a quantity of Fall earth-moving and hacking down with old friends (Kim insists on livable wage, $300 for 11 hrs. all projects done spit-spot), about landing in a Men’s Suit dept. opportunity. And now I’m waiting for the paperwork and timing for training, with the hugest retail time of the year at hand.
FYI- As someone whose role is to help people get what they want, I am excellent at determining what that is. Being of service 1:1, I appreciate Maverick’s line about new ‘target rich environment.’
Really good salespeople don’t forget service aspect
Really good salespeople don’t forget that customer service aspect. Until someone signs, or slides a card, you are suit selling to get paid, but IMHO, I’m less an hourly guy, more a professional, hanging skins on the wall with satisfied people guy for foreseeable future. I’m literally going to be the closer, meaning late shift.
Okay, its a bathroom shot, but Hugo Boss blue me & fedora wound up $1200 ahead at blackjack. Still calling it skill, but closer to lucky than this clutch Job Offer.
During post-COVID ’22, I did plenty of business in last hour, even last 20 minutes of shift. Often guys were just taking a shot coming by, weren’t sure anyone would be available to help. I’m going to rate current state of affairs as much more positive than back then. Manager said dept. is half-million ahead of budget, I like my chance$, will mention gratitude feelings next Thursday.
Lucky? Supremely qualified is more accurate. Thankful? Like the Carolina Panthers to be on righteous side of .500 and looking for the REALLY Good Things to keep happening. A Monday Night game against 49ers? Hooo-boy! Better get our groups Christmas trees unloaded FAST. The Panthers defense should know to buckle up tight with CMC in town.
Right place and Time
People know LOTS of items might not be available, almost certainly more expensive everywhere for obvious reasons. What I’ve seen in department visits seems a little pricey compared to Oct. ’23 (when I tried self-employment again), but apparently $795 for unstructured-no shoulder pads sports coats is very much where things are in late ‘2025. Suits over $1,000, Canali will be more, younger All Saints stuff in Suits area might surprise. I’m betting its still a great alterations group, we should charge more for really tight turnarounds.
Springsteen moans about the feeling of Why me/them? for living through bad times like ‘Nam- back in Suits isn’t that dramatic. The retail industry has manpower challenges in this economy, but I *was* #1 rated guy for same situation last year, when they didn’t add anyone during usual Fall-Christmas time. Appreciating how a specific manager has me ranked as #1 pick based on best practices, its not the NFL, but at least its not Cleveland.
I’m still a BoomerwithAttitude. While I hunkered down a little during early reign of relative presidential terror in America, marched twice, and took a 22% Medicaid cut, at 68 I’ve got a regular paycheck on the way, and while SNAP was necessary last year, I can buy those more expensive groceries, even periodically get a bag together in car to provide for others- as an individual whose been there. Vaxxed, check with a comma, threat of homeless handled well – a Great Suit Feel to end of 2021
lol Did I recently make any promises regarding this? Well, my criteria for making changes went beyond just cashing a 4-legger on FanDuel, I’ll tell you that. Didn’t anticipate Bryce Young slinging it all over the stadium, but I was sure taking any points to back Panthers, and WHOW! Don’t overlook the obvious (or promised) when Good-er Times show up, right?
Yep, its a different ‘tude in Charlotte- definitely not liking thug aspect of Border Patrol, guys wearing masks we like have Carolina Panthers logos.
While I still like ‘Smarter than the average bear Writer’ as a brand, I will watch the checks stack up in the bank and call it Righteous. You the Man, Marquelle.
Didn’t actually get a good read of the World Series, Attaboys! to Jays ,but while few know what ‘s under a Wizard’s hat. Shorkknows had a tough week of NFL football.
Okay, the question of Loserville being in Charlotte professional sports rear view mirror- NFL, NBA, MSL for starters- was actually rhetorical. ‘Escape velocity’ is still down the line.
QB Dalton (ehhhh) and RB Dowdle (!! Canales!!) are difference makers mas or menos, but seriously, nothing negative about Chuba or Kalkbrenner.
Halloween tricks probably won’t continue into Sunday’s game against Green Bay for Panther fans, and although 13 points might entice bettors, there are plenty of alternatives for this long-time sports bettor. No sense worrying about the home team when the Raiders are only getting 3 pts. from the Jaguars and the Giants (-2.5) are only getting a couple from the 49ers. While the Giants have screwed me religiously my entire betting life- and my 50th high school reunion was only a month ago- I won’t take Panthers game either way. Its more about the Hamiltons than Benjamins at this point, and although I’ll watch and cheer for them, no sense letting a good parlay get torpedoed.
Actually, scratch that ‘tude. Made Ed. Note- Just after kickoff, recognizing I couldn’t be a weenie about Panthers predictions, ‘IfBryce *doesn’t* blow things up and have to play from 14 pts. behind- just saying, we know that’s been a problem. Pass rush HAS to arrive today, taking good O-line making long drives, T-Mc and all others catching vs. dropping, Yes, Panthers beat the spread by scoring average 21.
Denver (-1.5!) in Houston sure feels like a gift, with 36 sacks by defense and Bo Nix picking up where he left off rookie year, which was pretty damn good. Whether it would be a sportscaster jinx for anyone in the TV booth or for a writer to suggest Colts QB Dan Jones (formerly an unappreciated Giant) could be a Comeback Player of the Year candidate- usually the domain of injured players vs. just hated for contract-production of wins negativity- suggesting Indy continue best practices, yeah, BUT… Maybe they open the proverbial can of whupass on the Aaron Rodgers Steelers, after Tomlin’s Monday Night’s performance. Give minimal three points? Done.
I’d also suggest taking the Lions (-8.5) against the Vikings, because Detroit is still working off a couple decades of being thumped by the Vikes and Packers. There’s no reason to believe Mr. Shough (really? the ending sounds like a K?) will have anything except ugly from pretty early against the Rams.
In the MLS playoffs, Charlotte’s 4th seeded Crown lost the first game at home 1-0 to #5 seed NYCFC on a 34th minute goal by Alonso Martinez. Charlotte FC forward Wilfried Zaha, who was red-carded in the season finale and missed this game, was a considerable loss offensively. They went to NYC for the second leg of a cumulative score series Saturday, and evened the series with a 1-0 penalty shootout (7-6) win. Charlotte FC Goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina stopped Agustin Ojeda for the finale. Teams will have an extended time before Game 3 Friday.
The Hornets, who hit a terrific 18-3s and nine players with double figures in their season opener against Brooklyn Nets, were much less prolific in second week of the season, are now 2-3 after being whacked by the Miami Heat 144-117, and Orlando Magic (2-4) last night, 123-107. Kon Kneuppel, who had five of the Hornets triples in opener, had one last night, and five points in 27 minutes, avg. 30 min. court time and shooting 41% from 3. Center Ryan Kalkbrenner continued his solid play with 17 points and 7 rebounds, and definite rim protector. Lorenzo Ball had a 17 point, 13 assist night, and is averaging 26.3 pts., 9.5 asst, 8.3 rebounds, Moussa Diabate had ten points and six rebounds. He and Kalkbrenner could become a tandem.
Loserville might be a state of mind, but in the betting world, you are frequently either the predator or the prey. The Panthers opened the season at +400 regarding winning the NFC South (FanDuel) is currently +700. Go figure…The Hornets (3-5) after losing 116-112 to Pelicans, is playing in the sorry Southeast Division, +2200 to win their division, ahead of the (honestly, still listed as an NBA team?) Washington Wizards at +25000, the Magic at +100.
Sorry, I don’t do many selfies, but if *nobody* got my strutting to entertainer John Eisenhart’s version of ‘Bad to the Bone’ at 50th Reunion, where has our national penchant for wanting to capture *everything* to somehow overlook me & The Hat? Pete Z., you’re a standard-bearer for Forever Young Boomers. John N. great to hear your running-career story re: teaching/sports marketing. Mini! and Linda N., Danny Smith’s date Janie and a visit to FL..? Jean Tafler+, carry on Good Woman and Actress.
Yes, a good time was had by those present. Can’t argue with that. Yeah, Linda and John Zampella are still looking that like fine wine aging deal.
With tennis racket and ‘letter jacket,’ Jock & Journalist
Lacking great hat from Reunion, I’ll sub-in Queens Cup Steeplechases post-races ‘Hotwalkers Ball.’ Blue-blue Bugachi shirt with yellow, multi-color Garcia tie. lol The folding, heavy wicker antique chair was a great prop, except at dancin’ time.
Friday evening was a successful warming up about possibly identifying faces, at ‘Horses (rear end logo)’ on McClellan. I gave Belle Waddington an early AttagalPerson! for the communications and getting a group together. I styled a suitably colorful Tommy Bahama shirt with Hugo Boss blue jacket, Nantucket Red faded pants with sneakers, varsity L with racket, vintage Steffi Graf G200 (small head!) racket slung over shoulder, and yes, The Fab 50th Hat.
On Saturday, Janelle R., another primary org asset for Class of ’75 reunion, (I’m smiling) caught me just *after* they took group picture of Central Park people who went to Linton – but that’s inadequate to explain the lack of coverage for Saturday night reunion gear. Yeah, yeah, sounds like a diva, but maybe its just Colbert. Given that EVERYBODY has a camera now, if somebody captured my dancing, send it along please!
Okay, everybody liked the fedora with bead of ’50’ medallions, and light key-lime green, soft Panama jacket with splashy blue-blue Bugatchi shirt and outstanding yellow-multi-color Garcia tie as Ukraine sympathy symbol plus ‘dancing shoes.’ Nothin’?
Brother David came in a tux- but I did that for 40th. Mini! & Melissa Schein- ?, thanks for dancing near me. YAY! to Tony Malitzia for a welcome report about Bob Massaroni’s heart and him doing well two years after transplant.
LOL Alex Chrys, though not in attendance, donating a second hour of open bar was welcomed by the 90-odd 1975 grads and significant others. Food was finger stuff, all of it tasty-desirable and no mess. Chuck Mohlman says he never chewed glass off a cracked glass at one of those early college year returns to Schenectady, so memories become maybe rumors others buy into. Could have been Comely… Brother David indeed told the story of a Sunday morning tackle game with college-HS buddies, messing up a 3″ wet snow Linton field before ’75 Election Day game vs. MP. Ooops.
The only thing un-great about whole reunion event was the speeding ticket at end of I-88 going home, but ticket wrecking my super-Attitude for the trip? Uhhh, I got ahold of a guy and its working out) I’ve loved checking the mileage and point-to-point-and back, and LeShork wasn’t only one running hot the whole way. Zoom-zoom,12.5 hrs., appreciated thinking time and rock & roll tunes back to Charlotte.
Politics didn’t really come up with anyone I talked to, Dave Ryan’s slant on local control and open to all ideas for better governance in Denver vs. Dem & Rep rules and attitudes, more power bro. Almost exactly zero Charlie Kirk, and (Army Major) nephew gave me straight-up, kitchen-level to locked in believer in him as representative of military, every reason to believe nothing exotic was going to come from star-level officers being assembled from around the world. (On Fri., agree True dat.)
No posing a threat, military would never be stupid about bending any (bleeping) knees. Other than FUBAR, stoic silence worked good by me. Just sayin,’ can bad guys track ‘US Importants’ easier after Hegseth’s 1500% (that’s good, right?) failed rah-rah?
Tennis worked out Great!
No golf or racetrack this time, but got out twice for tennis with my brother David, discovered whatever discomfort I sometimes get in right wrist (yes, I’m officially old, but a fact, not complaint) doesn’t cause actual pain except with mishits when I don’t set up right. What *seems* like a rejuvenated right shoulder meant a LOT better serving than hesitant previous time.
Having played long enough, you can assess what doing wrong/right, and I’m giving a month-plus worth of Tibetan monk circulatory assist exercises on YouTube credit for shoulder strength. There was no throwback clanking in shoulder from major 2020 bike accident. I actually placed serves with pace, gave Dave some trouble. At sixty-eight, out of the tennis closet and ready for Fall leagues in Charlotte!
I’ve previously mentioned how the Central Park courts where I played growing up, and where a big time former event OTB Open was held before the US Open, were end of street and through woods- whole operation is currently dug up. I’m smiling about early days on local backboard, high fencing and balls still making it into often muddy area behind.
It turns out, running has helped bone regeneration in Dave’s left leg, and since last year, he’s played regularly with a buddy. This was first time in years I’ve done more than pound a wall, hitting with ‘live ammo’/spin/location, I’m gratified about the results. Bicycling has kept me within five pounds of best rugby weight (188) for 35 years, tennis is an important social addition. I’ll gladly play doubles there than plock! plock! I can hear from a block away at Myers Park CC pickleball courts. How quickly I’m regaining muscle memory on groundstrokes with pace, yay!
Marking the Difference, 50 years and Always, Family & Relationships
Been there, done that, got the cards to prove it.
I’ve barely written anything solid for most of two weeks, just taking in the social uptick vibe (Come on, Janie!) I count getting invited to Panthers terrific home victory vs. ATL before making 800 mi. trip up on Mon. 22nd in my positives, feel no great sadness NOT seeing more than flashes of New England game while chowing wings (12 meaty ones for $15!) at bar from Reunion on Sunday. Saw that bang! bang! scoring in second and didn’t worry about it further. Laura was the bomb on service, FULL pours on wines and brews at Horse’s +logo was noticed.
That second quickie set of tennis before my heading back Tuesday 30th, and lunch + extra time with Aunt Carol, whom I hadn’t visited in years, cousin Joe staying for a beer Friday, and our scholarly professor-dude nephew (and ex-rugger) Spencer making *excellent* exotic natural mushrooms! pizza was better than prowling Saratoga. I drove by the old house on Lakewood, otherwise soaked in the family/familiarity of life in David and Donna’s house I helped build, before moving to Charlotte in 1995.
Two small kids in cellar was a rare treat, just walking (and crying after long travel upset sleep schedules) was first time seeing as great-uncle. I had small gifts for them, a super-colorful umpire’s coin for heads-tails, and a 100 year old book of childrens tales for future read-alongs. Its obviously way ahead of four-year old AJ now, just following at this point is a start. I’ve always been an advocate for kids reading and writing programs, no reason to fumble the opportunity for passing along a Special old one. https://cdtalententerprises.com/2019/06/28/well-delivered-messages-work-wonders-at-all-levels/
Stephanie said they’ll find a place to bring along a Santa Claus with sack full of teddy bears-ceramic statue I painted decades ago as family gift. Legacy? Wellll, sure hope so. We all know about favorites, Curtiss has been mine, the only one I really put to sleep at night. My mantra for him: Give up the ball early on the 2-1 break, you should get it back. Hit it to their backhand until they prove they can hit it back. His video games and watching an array of dials was probably more applicable Army training.
Doing some smaller stuff with good intentions, it still counts. I’ve choked up a little at times when I describe walking two blocks to a bookmobile, parked in the bank parking lot *every other Friday* during early reading years. Yes! I read ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea,’ and ‘Robinson Caruso’ too. Profile in Courage and Mark Twain! A ton on Monument books, they let me get as many as I wanted. When 7-9 of us guys at St. Helen’s vied for reading volume, Hardy Boys as often as Franklin W. Dixon cranked them out, and individual quiz A’s (20/20 or they had a better A) yeah, we felt like a pretty smart bunch. High school wasn’t like that.
I admit feeling realistically elite more completely as a three year-Journalism Person than HS Jock I faux-projected with tennis racket and varsity letter Friday. Honest George, you reminding me about McKiernan and Journalist of Year award, which my brother Mike received the year before, does bring back a Whaaaat? memory. Guess I was happy enough with unexpected Sportmanship award for Swim Club.
Still think there should have been more group input on the vein of cursive writing through yearbook by Liz. Just sayin.’ Nobody asked about her and a tennis finale-the Sports Banquet, so I only told that story once.
Class Scribe, Maybe
JOURNALISM and producing a documented, award-winning product every two weeks, that’s truly meant something all these years, and 1st Amendment free speech is HUGE by me. It was lots more than yellow hall pass elitism back then, more like Ray Patterson and WE created some Journalism history at Linton. Isn’t there a John Carter wing of Schenectady HS? I was an enthused and legitimate part of the huge post-Watergate Journalism major group (double major with Business/Marketing) and still consider myself a writing resource in several areas (sports wagering), but yeah, three days of paste up with Bundo was a standard. Good memories for Brian Pollock as a J-man.
Oh for the glory of the grade! but all too soon the glory fades. He who works, gets the credit, he who doesn’t, also gets it. So if and when you get an A, chalk it up to Ray’s Fair Play. -Having a decent RCP signature wasn’t necessary, neither was a date for pass. Our reading list included a lot of Vonnegut. You know ‘Player Piano’ was about GE, right? Yeah, sometimes we took tests, Writing and certain faded jeans was enough for A’s. GShork, Editor- I ramrodded two issues in 10 days vs. 2 weeks as Editor. Bless me for majorettes piece Karen- just sayin’…Karowe, Alper, Syracuse Convention, Hungry Charlies, borrowed pencil from Nazareth girl. Big poker winner, wicked hangover.
There’s no telling how much longer I create as a Writer (nail lid on…), perhaps next book is just a particularly Inspirational Woman for a legend-in-his-own-mind Romance Writer away. I can imagine that working…
Keyboarding is MUCH better than typing, but thanks to Mrs. Eidens and ability to effectively transfer ideas and facts into production/sometimes a living as an admin. Pasting in a specific paragraph and tapping ‘Print Pages X range’ vs. retyping all 9 affected is a God-send for editing.
I mentioned those parochial school years- my folks paid PUBLIC SCHOOL TAXES *AND* extra tab at St. Helens- and top guys like Rooney, Trumble, Ryan, myself, we didn’t care how or what the girls were doing, we judged ourselves absolutely at peer level. While invoking a particular favorite teacher- who also trained all of us as altar boys- and often allowed for second ‘right’ answers if argument was compelling evidence you’d been paying attention, fellow Linton grad AnnMarie DeJohn Kinzel stated flatly Saturday, “No, we girls didn’t do any negotiating extra right answers with him.”
Ahhh yes, different times. The geek captured on my first Linton ID (1972-73), but with Mr. Dieck’s big black signature covering most of me, is an ancient mystery to me . I think there were seven guys I played Pop Warner football with in Saturday group. Bob Houlihan, about PR writing and that Hartford project…? Did I hear that Steve Lussier is some kind of great surgeon, or was I mixing that with Scott Grayman not making it *because* of surgery? Thanks for the drink Mike Osborne. Nate Manley still looks like yearbook photo, which was Christ-like with bandana. Cagnina tried to grab my hat during some pictures, sorry, not happening. Danny- oooo! A *serious* date.
Just for rounding out some Catholic school stuff, 1) I was definitely better prepared/ahead when I changed to public school in 8th grade. Instead of excelling because I knew the material, I sloughed off. We can’t afford to let public school education be buried by a lack of resources. 2) Not too awful long after I left, maybe still in high school, one of the nuns from 6th grade and a priest left together for a different life. Just sayin.’ Oh, never stole hosts, drank wine, or got molested.
My brother Mike and I were also first altar boys ‘when things started changing’ in Sixties, to NOT wear cassocks and surpluses for Mass. Priest came in, said, “Don’t worry about those, you guys look fine,” and out we went. I still wasn’t aware of Vietnam except totals of casualties that was on Nightly News. It was essentially Kent State where myth, “We don’t shoot protesters in America” FACT was destroyed, at least when white protesters got an uncomfortable blast of Reality.
Knowing about that, with armored-up and mask-wearing, heavy ordinance-carrying, National Guard troops in our streets despite a specific Constitutional law against that, means negatives can happen. Stay frosty and strong America, and may the 3.5% Rule start kicking in soon. (fyi- Its about people in the streets)
If there’s a sense of What’s Next after a 50th Reunion, thats probably natural. Having fully participated in the national crisis that was Vietnam for so many, it passed over us as the North overran the South- when they understood US Air Force wouldn’t bomb the shit out of them- Spring of ’75 senior year. There was HUGE violence besides war, which We, the #BoomerwithAttitude I still cop to, still believe we’d FIXED with civil rights all around and ecologically DOING BETTER back then to survive. This constant rending/debasing of all that for politics sake just doesn’t square.
Is that the hill you want to die on? First Amendment- Actually, Yes
If the bottom line is still, ‘Is that the hill you want to die on?’ we’ve seen some awful times along the way. Part of the Boomer ‘tude is “Our music was better,” and no matter what its called, its what they play *loud* in every arena in every non-game situation, along with participation stuff. Sometimes I’d prefer to just talk about game situation or whatever with person next to me.
Maybe next year I’ll officially register as a cranky old man based on that. Right now, I’m ready for a Fall season of tennis. The serve is Quality, cagey veteran stuff, I’m back into social swing and competitive. I trust the military to keep being serious about what Now and 2026 looks like. I’ll do my part, third time as Precinct Judge (D) on Nov. 4th in Charlotte.
My mantra remains, ‘Never let it be said I didn’t do the least that could be done,’ especially for youth reading-writing programs. I believe I have a God-given talent for putting ideas into good form for various reasons, and failing to utilize that Writing strength is poking Somebody in the eye. There is still a Passion Project with a STEAM Academy and READ Charlotte, maybe you’ll hear about child artwork, Aesop’s Fables like-read along book.
In real estate years ago, the word was never talk Retirement with Boomers, the Forever Young. Hence, the rise of 55+ communities with lifestyle choices. We Boomers will always own Man on the Moon. I recently put a Graduation Card/15 pc. puzzle project on ETSY, just sayin’ Creativity isn’t age specific. My niece is finishing a last semester for an art-related Major. We all know its a mo’fo’ of a job market, oohhhh BOY! is it ever. Best wishes to all, my Good Week-plus of calm and camaraderie (gotcha Dave Ryan, and same Goodness for long walks with Hank, Dave’s border collie) for 50th was worth the effort, may you peeps help these Next Couple Gens survive.
Have to admit, I haven’t been subjected to that slack-stare thing so many mention about ‘this generation’ too often. On LinkedIn conversations and general discussions, engaging is still about active communications, and I am great 1-1 from sales and interview situations. I concur with opinions regarding those inter-personal skills vs. reliance on texting. Just sayin,’ ain’t thrilled with AI or (bleeping) Miller neither.
WE can’t 100% rely on the courts to maintain ‘order’/all craziness that continues to crop up, but that’s material for another day, along with something like disappointment by Carolina Panthers and New England. 31st year for them and myself here, they still get benefit of the doubt for the season.
Post-a significant mental respite around 50th reunion trip, now done and done, where and what should become an extension of ‘Many Quality Experiences’ for the Now of 2025? Think I’ll check out that Springsteen flick. Best Ever Luck: Got offer of $100 ticket same day for BRUCE! *local* after 25+ years. Memorable 3 hr. concert during Great Recession, paid over 2 paydays.
Congrats again to the whole Class of ’75 Reunion org group for getting things so right for two nights. I’ll have memories way beyond that single event at end of I-88 (still making it back in a VERY solid time, 12.5 hrs), and I got a guy on that. Jean Tafler, no, we didn’t really intersect long ago, but such good communicating while hanging out- thanks so much for chatting at length. Melissa Schein, enchante! Will it be possible to encourage some e-mail or regular addresses/best practices, I wanted to send couple ‘Welcome to Real World’ puzzles to worthy attendees.
*Hopin’* somebody has a video slice of my stylish behavior to send along, and I *know* I was in front ranks for outside pictures, surprised myself about not taking any…
Best of thoughts to all, may Success, Love, and BoomerwithAttitude wisdom continue to light your steps. What’s in the cards, I dunno.
Head Coach Dave Canales announcing starters would get some reps in pre-season was a change from 2024, when fear of injury to front-liners without personnel for ‘next man up’ philosophy made them seem physically over-matched, as Saints shoved them around in 45-10 rout that followed Panthers all season. Injuries, including Jonathan Brookes 2nd knee (ACL) and Josey Jewels concussion protocol, are not actual factors now. Derrick Brown and Ejiro Evero’s defensive front seven, with plenty to improve on in 2025, won’t be talking smack, just NFL production every game.
This is a much better than 6-11 team making micro-improvements. Yes, if not the farm, put some resources on over 6.5 wins, and +400 (projected 3rd!) for NFC South beckons mightily.
If the Browns don’t show out in all-brown gear tomorrow, I’ll be mildly thankful for the non-dookies visual. Should we anticipate a lot of pads cracking action? Chuba Hubbard is the Lead Dawg, have to believe offensive line stakes out some attitude for him. Position ranking, Panthers have essentially two full O-lines, so offense is seeing starters action.
Trust the system Mr. Right Tackle
Taylor Moton got a little emotional about contract situation recently, I’d say trust the system Mr. Right Tackle. Extending at max rate isn’t out of the question, playing both your team and yourself into higher-greater Success has been rewarded on regular basis with #MrTeppers$.
HC Dave Canales won’t be showcasing a full playbook of possibilities, but T-Mac and XL are more than just decorations, and, well, everyone DOES want to know about going downfield. McMillan IS a physical mismatch for anyone, and fannies-the NFL would like to see how far his stride gets him regarding ‘fast.’ He’s not doing four steps and button hook routes like the chunky kid back in the neighborhood games, and he’s tracked over-the-shoulder stuff in camp situation videos, so yes, we’ll probably see a couple long balls.
If XL gets to show off another catch-run like at FanFest (39 yards), there can be quiet optimism about whether he fully becomes a tough cover for defenses based on that physicality. I’d never peg him a failure if the whole WR room had a collective big year and Leggette missed 1,000 yards with 60 grabs (49 in 2024) through distribution. If fantasy league projects double (8) TDs from him, what should McMillan’s stats look like? Yes, there are expectations now, and amping the YAC vs. very avg. 10 per catch would make him a dangerous WR2.
Can MORE than the six (or seven, Renfrow’s in, right?) expected WRs figured as locks for final roster possibly get a chance for reps? (Yes.) Andy Dalton and Jack Plummer should get opportunities to air things out, so best practices says some footballs in the air Friday. Last year the UDFA (undrafted free agents) names were DB Demani Richardson and WR Jalen Coker. Do your adding and subtracting on this. https://www.espn.com/nfl/team/roster/_/name/car/carolina-panthers
Competition for jobs, yep, pads are on. LB Bam Scott-Martin has definitely had his chance to impress in preseason improved with Panthers release of veteran OLB Josey Jewels because he’s still in concussion protocol, seven months after injury.
Things happening Elsewhere
Should I actually care what comes out of four QBs situation in Cleveland, even if its up close or on free TV? I’d say no, because I’m no fan at all of Pickett, and what would be a good outing for Gabriel or Sanders? If Sanders went 6/13, 68 yards, 1/1 TD-INT, would that satisfy anything? 150 yards, 3/1 – doubt he gets the reps to produce that – but I’d say hmmmmm for sure. Defense? Gotta see it, big and bad.
Should we poke the J-E-T-S! about Fields yet? Maybe its just a tick of mine, but every time I see ‘hope’ in sentence with his name, *twitch.*
Amazing how everyone recognized the weight on Caleb Williams in Chicago (68 sacks, LOT of weight) was tough on #1 pick, so how Bryce Young made it to current level with second half of season progress becomes more ‘Yeah, that’s how QBs used to age, Year Three (plus more talented people around them if possible) you saw Better.’
Sure, some QB Whisperer must’ve happened there, and now its not, ‘A year before end of his rookie contract, are we sure about…?’ Yes, GM Dan Morgan should be up for Exec of Year consideration, the needle has clearly been moved.
Panthers signed their 2nd round DE (Nic Scourton) and #3 Princely Umanmielen (Florida) before the Bengals got #1 pick, and Stewart was often mentioned as a defensive pick https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45824885/shemar-stewart-bengals-hammer-home-language-reach-deal for Panthers pre-draft. Instead, Morgan picked T-Mac at #8, and #2 Scourton participated in all Panthers team activities during camp.
Big difference in rookie attitude, Bengals putting certain language in contract because, ‘We don’t want to pay for (potentially) four years in jail,’ not hearing that with ‘Our kind of guys’ in Charlotte. Just sayin’.
Out in Vegas with Raiders, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1QZ4KhIxYE I’m willing to hope Austin Jeanty does well, his first NFL moment wasn’t so memorable though. If anyone can turn that operation around, Pete Carroll has previously done wonders with Gino in Seattle, and there’s Brock Bowers killing it, but it’s still the AFC West, with Chiefs, Chargers, Broncos, a tough place to get well quickly.
Nix proved he can sling it, Panthers picked up ‘Turk’ Wharton https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45441385/nfl-carolina-panthers-tershawn-turk-wharton from Chief’s defense in a salary cut move that improves Panthers defense in a big way. Overlooking the Saints, sorry, taking two from them is in everyone’s calculations, splitting with Buccaneers would open up possibilities for sure.
As hot as Charlotte is – I put together a late lunch and almost passed out in my apartment because I didn’t turn on the AC as soon as I entered – and pads at practice has begun, best of thoughts for the process next 40 days holds for Panthers.
Yes, the Carolina Panthers have dragged the lower rungs of NFL forever it seems (‘just seven’ misses mark), but MrTeppers$ has got to be pleased with promising changes for football operations in Year II of GM Morgan, Head Coach Dave Canales, and $$$ guy-VP Brandt Tilis.
At a time when actual physical heat in Charlotte is regularly tapping high 90s, fan enthusiasm is clearly warming up too, based on a strong second half to 2024-25 season by QB Bryce Young, terrific drafting by Morgan, and the best practices accumulation of essential talent the franchise hasn’t had available in far too long.
From the return of defensive standout Derrick Brown, the selection of WR Tetaroia McMillan (#8) at top of A+ rated draft, an actual kicker competition (!!) and good news about TE Ja’Tavian Sanders (neck injury-midseason, 33 catches/342 yds./TD), Panther fans almost certainly won’t be selling their season tickets to football fans from elsewhere on a weekly basis.
First day in pads, minor problems
Several names have already been replaced by newly signed possibilities on 90-man pre-season roster, and that’s going to be a consistent churn for most of forty days, until week before the season opener vs. Jacksonville Jaguars on Sept. 7th.
Elements like rookie DE Princely Umanmielen (Kentucky) tapping Young’s arm in practice, LB Trevin Wallace and RB Chuba Hubbard exchanging pleasantries after a sideline hit, or offensive lineman Chandler Zavala getting a knee tweaked blocking Brown, forging a squad that expects to push Tampa Bay for the NFC South title has begun in earnest.
Just FYI, kickers Matt Wright and Ryan Fitzgerald (FSU) have both gone 7/10 on the skinny goal posts thus far. Fitzgerald was a finalist for 2024 Lou Groza Award, going 13/13 on FGs, 14/14 on extra points, and 5/5 over 50 yards. (Eddie who?)
Fans won’t get to see practices with plays like T-Mac’s outstanding grab on a perfectly thrown pass to beat safety Mike Jackson’s tight coverage, Clemson product Hunter Renfrow showing his route-running ability didn’t disappear during over a year out of football with ulcerative colitis, or just how fast-elusive 6th round pick Jimmy Horn, Jr. is compared to Panther legend Steve Smith. Horn was QB Shedeur Sanders ‘other’ receiver at Colorado, opposite Heisman winner Travis Hunter, but lacking the option of attending practices this year and next due to construction, fans may have to content themselves with tracking the coming and goings of personnel on a paper roster https://www.nfl.com/teams/carolina-panthers/roster or online resources.
A dozen names you might not have heard (or continue not to): Bailey, Basham, Gifford, Dafney, Harrison-Hunte, Hudson, Incoom, Kandar, Losoya, Ray, Reid, Tarquin – will be knocking heads in the heat with returning players and whomever GM Dan Morgan and Brandt Tilis feel might improve the team’s return to professional NFL respectability.
ANTICIPATION – Absolutely!
While injuries are always a rationale for lesser performance team-wise – and Morgan will get props for his efforts both last year and putting a much better group of bodies on the field this time around – Canales has achieved his stated desire to have full WR, RB, TE rooms to work with in 2025-26. TE Sanders comes back lighter and faster after his neck injury, and is expected to become the red zone presence Panthers drafted him (Texas) for last year.
Whether any of three tight ends can evoke positives to Greg Olsen, WR Jalen Coker https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4695883/jalen-coker can hopefully expand on a very solid first year, and highly motivated Xavier Leggett (49/497/4 TD) could be a major contributor if drops concerns are mitigated.
DC Ejiro Evero was brought back despite a year where Panthers defense gave up 31.4 ppg, over 3,000 rushing (179.8 per game), and registered only 32 sacks (Broncos blitz-happy D led NFL with 63) and nine INTs – but had a #4 ranked defense the year before. Morgan spent freely to sign free agents to solidify all three levels of that unit, and while there’s no chance that Derrick Brown could reduce those numbers by himself, bringing that rushing average down ten spots (Patriots, 131.4) or ATL level (#16, 120.6) would be an excellent goal.
The addition of free agent safety Tre’von Moehrig from Raiders and Lathon Ransom, a thumper from Ohio State, should help both run support and in coverage on back end. Having a bona fide nose guard (Bobby Brown III) vs. Shy Tuttle, and 6’6″, 328 lb. Florida Gator nose man Cam Jackson figures to change that 3K problem as well.
The linebacking crew will miss Josey Jewell in coverage, and he tied A’Shawn Robinson with top sack total of 5.5, but was released because he is still in concussion protocol seven months after the injury. FA Christian Rozeboom (135 tackles, Rams) will be truly appreciated from Day 1.
NFC South title in play? Yep!
Without getting excessively enthused about three close losses to playoff teams (Tampa Bay, Philadelphia, Kansas City), .500 is the next level of achievement for Panthers to strive for. They were hosed in Buccaneers game at home when Adam Thielen’s TD catch at back of end zone was disallowed by an official and *apparently* video replay didn’t 100% confirm it. Panthers Hubbard then lost a fumble in OT and Bucs kicked a FG for the win.
Few have forgotten Leggette’s drop of a pass that would have put them in a position to win in Philly, and his dedication to catching with his hands vs. letting ball get into his body has been discussed since, and sweaty videos of that dedication are legitimate. His opinion that defenses won’t be able to double cover both T-Mac and himself is more legitimate than puffing of pride. If Horn brings back memories of ‘Stevie Superstar89,’ who was considered just a punt returner as a rookie but became an iconic receiver here, Leggette is Mushin Muhammed size with hellacious wheels, and there’s nothing wrong with holding that picture up for consideration either.
Adam Thielen figures to get his share of looks/catches from the slot to help move the sticks, and after Chuba Hubbard was rewarded for his solid efforts https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/4241416/chuba-hubbard with a four year, $33.2MM contract that allowed the Panthers offensive line to control more game time while still protecting Young, many of the pieces of a successful season are in place. Adding a 1,000 rusher (Rico Dowdle) when the Cowboys didn’t do anything possible to keep him in their backfield means plenty in bigger picture.
Fans won’t beable to see Panthers practiceson field downtown this season or next. This is a scorching reminder for anyone who ever attended a practice in Spartanburg. This is like 9:30, and people are in the small sliver of shade, you just stood there, talked some, and sweated.
Its obviously been a looong minute since Charlotte has cared this much about both its NFL and NBA franchises. With kudos for a couple seasons of solid management all around, and showing major promise in getting to There in 2025, burying Loserville tag on two vibrant, moving forward leadership groups will make for a hotter, more satisfying rest of sports year. (Knights are 11-9, 4th in International League East)
7/21/25 https://www.nba.com/news/nba-2k26-summer-league-kings-hornets Well now, 6-0 is actually more than anyone expected, and I’m kind of laughing at those who dissed KK after mediocre first game. Whether a reasonable, happy news result is coming about last years French product at #6 still seems in doubt, https://www.nba.com/player/1642275/tidjane-salaun but just knowing Ryan Kalkbrenner is available to become the rim-protector Hornets have lacked forever isn’t a fact that will diminish before next season.
Being a 4x Defensive Play of Year in Big East isn’t luck or coincidence, and if they want him on perimeter shooting threes like a Euro-center, that’s probably the least of his traditional back-to-basket, guard your man mission. Not considered a great rebounder? Giannis was 11.9 rpg, what’s great ? Everyone should be on the boards, evv-very-one! Moussa Diabate can’t shoot much? Get some glass, keep other guys honest. Sion James will be a force on the defensive perimeter and boards – 8.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game (Duke, 2025) .
The Hornets now have *plenty* of shooters with Knueppel, McNeeley, Miller, Sexton, and as far as anyone knows, Melo. Tre Mann, Josh Green and Nick Smith, Jr. will need to battle, Mason Plumlee might be one Dookie too many after scanning early roster.
Hornets President Jeff Peterson is Donald Glover’s character in ‘steely-eyed missile man’ category re: Rich Purnell Maneuver (‘The Martian’, 2015).
Original moniker was applied to NASA flight controller John Aaron (Apollo 12, 13), and refers to calm, crucial solutions and decisive actions – his ‘Switch SCE to Aux’ – after a lightning strike threatened to scrub Apollo 12 launch is legend. In movie, its a gravity slingshot around Earth for an impossible mission – 553 days longer – to save a left-behind astronaut.
7/17/25 Yeah, that is about how far Hornets had seemed from Success. GShorkknows
Contracts and Expectations, Many, many names
Whenever a naysayer opines that *everything* is riding on this Panthers team blowing 6.5 wins out to insure GM Dan Morgan, HC Dave Canales, and Pres. Brandt Tilis don’t lose their jobs, I let them know that football operations are doing just fine, #MrTeppers$ hasn’t been that rip everything up by the roots owner for a while. Lots of names will pass through Panthers roster before first game (Jax) in September, Hornets have some numbers to trim as well.
Yes indeedy, there are loads of Expectations here in the Buckle of the Bible Belt, and YES! Morgan did an admirable job, showcasing an A+ rated draft of documented production defensive and offensive talent, after substantial filling of defensive gaps with qualified FA personnel. Dang! about Josey Jewell leaving in concussion protocols after seven months.
There isn’t an unsigned tag on #2 pick Nic Scourton any more, and he’s done all previous training thus far. Camp starts Wednesday, so it wasn’t a hold-out per se. https://www.on3.com/pro/news/2025-nfl-draft-contract-details-revealed-for-panthers-second-round-pick-nic-scourton/ The NFL knew Morgan needed to draft a ‘he can hurt you long’ receiver at some point, his selecting AZ All-American wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at #8in 1st rnd. an indicator why (IMHO) he’s got inside track on Executive of the Year. Addressing defensive needs got handled as best practices. Just sayin’.
Offensive lines get talked about until there’s no need to, and the Panthers now stack every position with a replacement. Austin Corbett and Cade Mays will have a battle for center, luck on staying healthy hasn’t been Corbett’s best friend. Chuba Hubbard is the teams Alpha-Lead Dawg, if that’s necessary to state, although having another 1,000 yard guy back there shouldn’t be a struggle.
Will we determine whether Bryce can see even better down field behind this line, or will Panthers move him around to open up passing lanes? (He sees fine).
Young’s ten TDs-no turnovers in final three games still hits key chord in growth estimations. The most effective aspect of a play action pass is the reality of the quarterback actually giving the ball to runner for a healthy gain. Panthers Hubbard keeps that uppermost in a defenses concerns, adding variety with open playbook becomes a fact with QB Young and Head Coach Canales on same wave.
DEEE-fense! arrives in Charlotte – Damn straight!
Fact Panthers defense surrendered a stupendous amount of rushing yards – over 3,000 – well, Derrick Brown is again the Sheriff, and there are defensive ends and nose tackles now with documented stats and history with DC Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 model. No, Shy Tuttle wasn’t the answer at the nose position, though he figures to stay on roster as a rotational player. GM Morgan isn’t passing out #MrTeppers$ to just anyone, and the $100MM contract that Jaycee Horn earned after an All Pro, injury-free year, speaks to how things should now be done in Charlotte. Looking at you Mr. Moton.
You probably haven’t heard many of the 90 names on camp roster who project as second half of keepers on final 53-man roster, and its going to be Panthers taxi squad (15) that will make a difference through 18 week regular season.
Going into Wednesday, its been noted there is a plethora of choices in the WR room, and most of top six seem like no-brainer keeps. At no point will Panthers try and stash Horn on a taxi squad. Yes, T-Mac will learn what REAL July humidity feels like in Charlotte. The physio-people will be on top of everything – Ooops! almost said ‘No sweat.’
Is that Rozeboom guy from Rams really a 135-tackle bad ass?
Its been noted there is a plethora of choices in the WR room, and most of top six-seven seem like no-brainer picks for roster. At no point will they try and stash Horn on a taxi squad. If he wants to imitate Stevie SuperStar starting with returns, lets go! No ego, he played opposite a Heisman guy.
Yes, T-Mac will learn what REAL July humidity feels like in Charlotte. The physio-people will be on top of everything – Ooops! almost said ‘No sweat, T-Mac,’ but no, ain’t gonna be AZ dry heat.
Did doubling up on young stud defensive edge rushers (Nic Scourton, Round 2, #51) and Princely Umanmielen, Round 3, #77) mean Clowney was expendable? Apparently yes, though there was a moment of concern about a slip-possible injury immediately post-cut. All the linebackers have downfield speed for coverage, how well sacks are produced will be a subject of much counting from Game One.
The Panthers have been bottom three in sacks for years, but just FYI, team record is 60, held by 1996, 2013 teams. In Peppers superman 2008 campaign with 14.5 sacks, they had 50. With the recognition that Evero’s projected safety tandem (Moehrig, Ransom) are recognized thumpers, don’t be surprised what a professional, career as well-regarded defensive coach, can come up with, maybe blitz packages, when his personnel is closer to genuine NFL grade.
Yes, Expectations will be way higher than last, well, seven years. I’m a #BoomerwithAttitude, so thumbs up for Football Operations. Go Hornets, thoughts for Melo…
Things will be less gloomy in Charlotte, with a brighter offensive-defensive energy, a newness reboot of franchise.
Celebrating start of personal 31st year in Charlotte, arrived 1995, same as Panthers, and similarity of high energy and ‘newness-reboot’ on team pride for 2025 is legit. By most estimates, Panthers have six solid, multi-skilled WRs, with a quantity of attention on Xavier Leggette, after four opportunities to show off his Dollar Bill gallop as TD celebration.
He’s honest and right about several non-catches costing team football games, and being the other side from 6’4″ Tetairoa McMillan, the Panthers #1 pick from Arizona, teams are going to have trouble doubling size and speed on both.
OC Idzik – ‘First time same position for me too’
When some NFL analysts have evaluated the Panthers upgrades in personnel as only worth a single victory more – 6.5 – than last season projection, believing the best receiving room talent accumulated since first Super Bowl is in direct line with best practices by football operations is easy. https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2016/2/7/10902996/carolina-panthers-2003-new-england-patriots-super-bowl-XXXVIII Add three tight end targets and a couple backs, Bryce Young’s options behind a well-tested offensive line will mean undeniably bigger numbers offensively. In documented production of every free agent and draftee in 2025, the WR array is beyond solid, on offense and defense.
There’s no reason to doubt the Truth of Leggette’s POV, that doubling he and McMillan will be difficult. Any footage of the AZ All-American looks like a physical overmatch on size, especially when he high-points many receptions, and his yards after catch are substantial. As a 227-pound speed burner, Leggette is more basic than saying ex-Panthers favorite DJ Moore was ‘tough to get on the ground,’ whether he’s tough to catch, he’s statistically easier (less YAC) to get on turf than a speedy/studly guy should be.
Expectations for improved concentration and hand-catching vs. body is a definitive second year goal, and camp coaching plus Leggette’s attention to task, will be evident. Naysayers regarding XL’s Must Achieve production or risk being lost in WR group are dumb, that he’ll become a lesser option for targets because of Panthers wealth on that front, what ‘many less’ constitutes in an expanded playbook with better personnel, the fannies haven’t seen anything to base a bust tag on.
Offensive Coordinator Brad Idzik was solid on fact of 2025 as second time around in same system after a couple years of plug-play adjustments himself, before coming from Tampa Bay with Head Coach Dave Canales last year. Don’t expect Panthers will abandon an excellent offensive line operation with Chuba Hubbard at core of ball control to sling footballs around BOA Stadium.
Expectations for improved concentration and hand-catching vs. body is a definitive second year goal, camp coaching plus Leggette’s attention to task will be evident. Naysayers regarding Xavier Leggette’s Must Do production or be exiled to end of WR line are dumb. His becoming a lesser option for targets because of McMillan and Panthers wealth on that front, what ‘many less’ constitutes in an expanded playbook with better personnel, the fannies haven’t seen anything to base a bust tag on.
6/1/25 – GlennS. Just sayin,’ I saw Xavier doing a pre-Kentucky Derby interview, and whether he was coached on speaking slower or not, IMHO, no great effort was required to understand him. Now, Jerry from poker, when he gets excited, even though I know I asked him something, yikes! (If you pay attn, XL does fine in this 12 min. clip)
Panthers GM Dan Morgan made Leggette his first Big Boy decision, trading up with Buffalo to draft Leggette in first round, when *everyone* knew Panthers didn’t have a #1 pick going in. That’s not a pressure point, nor is McMillan. He understands and is practicing exactly what coaches emphasize, that becoming a better receiver entails instead of what sort of fantasy football numbers he generates.
In the bigger Carolina Panthers picture, the off-season improvement of Ejiro Evero’s defense got the lion’s share of emphasis with free agent signings, then Tet-Mc’s semi-surprising pick at #8, and the anticipation of the WR1 the NFL world knew they sorely needed probably AFTER they got another defensive asset, but Sports Illustrated and I are on same wave about XL’s higher productivity potential.
Could elevating his stats from 49/496 yds/4TD to 70/750/7 TDs ever be considered a negative? If both reached over 1,000 yds., would anyone doubt they’d be a playoff team? https://www.si.com/nfl/panthers/nfl-analyst-names-2nd-year-wr-panthers-top-summer-breakout-candidate-01jwrj1pfb51 His YAC wasn’t exceptional (112.3 yds. ranked #92) for his documented speed. Carolina Panthers fans will recall Curtis Samuel’s crazy speed (4.31 in 40) for several years, and going free agency after one full season of injury-free production. As noted, at 6’1″, 227 highly motivated pounds, so catching AND on the ground equation changes when he catches in stride.
Catch, then be Special. – HC Dave Canales, early comment about Leggette’s catching.
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