CHARLOTTE – During Sunday's NFC Divisional Playoff win over Seattle, the Panthers’ first play of the game was their biggest play of the game.
Running back Jonathan Stewart burst through the middle for a 59-yard gain – the longest run against the top-ranked Seattle rush defense all season.
"There were some great efforts on that play," head coach Ron Rivera said Monday. "I thought the initial surge we made from the left side of the offensive line sealed down the inside."
Seattle defensive tackle Brandon Mebane penetrated the line and his presence actually stopped Stewart’s momentum three yards behind the line of scrimmage.