Video

Panthers bring it back to Charlotte

More News video

• View larger
• E-mail clip
• More video

Search Video:

CHARLOTTE, N.C.-- As the buses rolled into Bank of America Stadium Sunday night, the sign on the first one said, “The Happy Bus.” 

Players hopped off with smiles on their faces, and Panther fans couldn’t be happier about the playoffs starting at home.  It’s the first playoff game played in Charlotte since the team’s Super Bowl run in 2003.

“We got a bye week so everyone can get healthy,” said Panthers fan Mickey Kidwell.  “We got a home game -- hopefully the Giants will lose -- and we'll have another home game."

The extra home game is like one more Christmas gift for fans, and for Charlotte businesses.  Stool Pigeons’ manager Joseph Carita said his restaurant has good business on game days – even road games, like today.  "We were packed.  It was nothing but a sea of blue and black jerseys,” said Carita.    

But that business gets even better after home games, especially if the Panthers win.  Crowds want to go somewhere to celebrate.

“They stay, they spend a lot of money, they drink more, they eat more – they’re definitely happier,” said Carita.  

The recent Monday night game at Bank of America brought about $10 million to Charlotte’s economy, according the Convention and Visitors Bureau.   Moira Quinn of Center City Partners estimated a playoff game would bring in close to that.

Even the players seem glad to play their first playoff game at home.

“It's beautiful, it's beautiful,” said running back DeAngelo Williams, as he shook hands with a line of fans.  “They deserve it, they deserve it... best fans in all of football... right here.”

Team leaders said Sunday that fans eager for playoff tickets will find out how to get them Monday or Tuesday, after the team finalizes its plans.