Superman Returns: Carolina Panthers Hint at Historic Homecoming for Panthers-Rams Postseason Clash
The "Superman" cape may be in the closet, but Cam Newton is officially returning to the stadium he once called his backyard.
The Carolina Panthers have hinted that their former franchise quarterback and 2015 NFL MVP will serve as the honorary "Keep Pounding" drummer for Saturday’s NFC Wild Card matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. The team essentially confirmed the news via social media, featuring a video with Newton’s voice and his signature stylized font, captioned: “SOUND THE DRUM. Don’t be Late.”
Saturday marks a historic milestone for the Queen City, as it serves as the Panthers' first home playoff game in 10 years. The last time Bank of America Stadium hosted a postseason contest was the 2015 NFC Championship game, in which Newton led Carolina to a 49-15 blowout of the Arizona Cardinals, securing a trip to Super Bowl 50.
According to ESPN, a team spokesperson stopped short of an official confirmation, but league sources indicate that Newton’s "4th&1" podcast is scheduled to be in Charlotte on game day.
"It’ll be electric," Pro Bowl cornerback Jaycee Horn said Wednesday. "That’ll be something everybody will want to see. It’ll mean a lot to this organization, a lot to this city. It’ll be lit."
Newton remains the most decorated signal-caller in franchise history. He is the only Panthers quarterback to win a league MVP and ranks second in franchise playoff wins with three, trailing only Jake Delhomme.
His return to the drum follows a season-long trend of the organization honoring the 2015 Super Bowl team; former greats Greg Olsen, Jordan Gross, and Ryan Kalil have all taken turns striking the drum this year. However, the return of "Ace Boogie" carries a different weight for a fanbase that has waited a decade to host a playoff game.
The Panthers (8-9) enter the contest as NFC South champions, hosting a 12-5 Rams team that finished second in the NFC West. Despite the record discrepancy, the home-field advantage—and the presence of the franchise’s greatest icon—is expected to create an intimidating atmosphere for the visitors.
Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday at Bank of America Stadium. For a city that hasn't seen playoff football at home since Newton was under center, the message is clear: the energy is back.
