“There’s always next year” they say. 

I’ve been waiting more than 15 years to see the only NFL franchise I’ve ever associated myself with reach the pinnacle of the game and bring home an elusive Super Bowl title. I’ll be waiting another year.

The Carolina Panthers lost to the New Orleans Saints in the NFC Wildcard Round on Sunday, 31-26. It was a game that reflected the biggest storylines of the season: missed opportunities, a wishy-washy offense/defense, and adversity. Lots of it. It’s truly been a roller coaster of a season. A season with some promise, turned into yet another disappointing one. 

You may say my post is rather soon and gloom; not indicative of a true fan. But the Panthers have always been my team. I’ve supported the franchise through the good and bad seasons for 15 years. Heck, I tuned in to Panthers games on television every week, even when the record – and play on field – were pretty awful.

That being said, I’m tired. Tired of saying “we’ll get ‘em next year” after every season.