View topic - Panthers view of last nights game

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http://www.charlotteobserver.com/panthers/story/159092.html

A look into the mind of the enemy.

Observations | Panthers vs. Steelers
Posted: Friday, Aug. 29, 2008

The Panthers' second-team defense was hanging with Pittsburgh's starters for a while. But then the Steelers' Willie Parker found the smallest of seams near the sideline and raced 26 yards on Pittsburgh's second possession. D.S.


Biggest hit of the game: Steelers' Anthony Smith separating receiver Travis Taylor from the ball in the second quarter. D.S.


A clueless observer noticed a lot of permanent-looking signage around Heinz Field saying “Steelers” and “Panthers.” He wondered how complicated and expensive it was to change all the places it said “Panthers” to another opposing team each week. Then the clueless observer realized “Panthers” referred to the University of Pittsburgh Panthers, who share the stadium with the Steelers. D.S.


Most entertaining play: Steelers linebacker Donovan Woods hit Panthers quarterback Brett Basanez as he was throwing in the fourth quarter, forcing the ball to go straight up. That forced a jump ball between Carolina's Troy Fleming and Pittsburgh's Grant Mason. Mason won, but he dropped the ball and an interception was averted. D.S.


“Terrible Towels” were everywhere and are a huge merchandising item, both in the stadium and on the streets around Heinz Field. The towels have been a tradition at Steelers games for more than 30 years. Earlier Thursday, a man near the Roberto Clemente Bridge quoted a price of $6 per towel. A few hours later, another vendor closer to the stadium was selling the towels for $8. He seemed flabbergasted at the suggestion that someone else was selling them for $2 less. Eventually, he relented and offered a “deal,” matching his competitor's price. Charles Chandler


Seen in downtown Pittsburgh a few hours before the game: A man and woman walking together, he (new school) in a Julius Peppers No.90 Panthers jersey, she (old school) in a vintage Mean Joe Greene No.75 Steelers jersey. C.C.


How do you know you're in the Pittsburgh airport? When you see the statue of the Steelers' Franco Harris bending low to make his “Immaculate Reception” in the 1972 playoffs against Oakland. D.S.