The Carolina Panthers have done it again, and this time, their win will advance them to the NFC finals and to the last game standing between them and a Super Bowl appearance. North Carolina is a changed state on game day, as we all unite to support the number one team in the National Football League.

Unlike college sports, which have Carolinians sharply divided between the Wolfpack, Tar Heels, Blue Devils, Deacons, and others, Panther football offers an opportunity for us to come together and to share a common identity and sense of pride. Although it is fun, Panther football eliminates the competition with our neighbors and allows us to cheer on the boys that are near and dear to all of our hearts. This gives Sundays in our state a sense of community following Saturdays scored by rivalry. There are only two colors that are worn on Sundays, and those are teal and black.

Instead of battling for who runs this state, the Panthers do a dang good job of showing the entire country who runs the NFL. We have patiently awaited our turn to have all eyes on us, as the rest of the country envies the pride and celebration we have experienced every Sunday this season minus one. And on that one occasion, when we fell to the Falcons, we maintained a coveted devotion to our team and even more motivation to just keep getting better.

Although all football teams have a strong fan base, the Panthers create a sense of pride that is unique to their fans. Every Carolinian knows what it is like to get chills every time a ball is handed to a young fan in the stands, even after watching this happen dozens of times. Our mantra of "keep pounding" is something that will spark the flame inside every Panther's fan, and reminds us that no matter how far we've come, we have more to conquer, especially in times of defeat. Most importantly, every Panther fan loves to watch Cam celebrate each and every touchdown with his victory dance, because their success is our success.

Most importantly, the Panthers provide us with something to put our faith in, and more times than not, we aren't disappointed. This goes for on and off the field, as many of the Panthers are known for their community service and devotion to the state that they call home. Any time that the boys in blue are playing at Bank of America Stadium or on the road, North Carolina is changed for the better. Sundays wouldn't be the same without such an incredible team to cheer on and unite under.