Choosing your NFL/EFLI team - Almost Bandwagon Fans

Carolina Panthers

Colours: Turquoise, Black and Silver

Bank of America Stadium, home of the Carolina Panthers

Mascot: Sir Purr

Stadium: Bank of America Stadium

Home City: Charlotte, North Carolina

Super Bowl wins: 0 (1 appearance)

Records over last 5 years: 35 wins, 45 losses, 1 playoff appearance

Best Players: Luke Kuechly, Cam Newton, Thomas Davis

Bio: The Panthers joined the league as an expansion franchise in 1995. After a period of success in the mid-2000s that saw them lose a Super Bowl in 2003 and an NFC Championship game in 2005, Carolina then floated into insignificance with only one playoff appearance in the next seven years.

Now, however, the franchise has become relevant again. They made the playoffs for the first time in five years this past season, mainly because of talented young players who have taken over the team. The defence is led by former defensive rookie of the year Luke Kuechly, and has become one of the most dominant defences in the NFL under his leadership.

The offence does not live up to the high standards set by the defence, but it is still a dangerous and enjoyable unit to watch. This is thanks to quarterback Cam Newton; a dual-threat quarterback with the size, speed and arm strength to beat any defender any way he wants. Newton himself is a former offensive rookie of the year.

This combination makes the Panthers one of the most exciting teams in the league to watch. With young leaders, talent at core position groups and a truly dominant defence, this team could be set to become a staple of NFL success over the next decade or so.