CLEMSON, S.C. — The Carolina Panthers gave their supporters a treat at their “Fan Fest” held at Clemson’s Memorial Stadium.
The Panthers kicked off their 30th season back where it all began at Clemson University.
The team played their inaugural season at Clemson while their stadium was being built in Charlotte.
Erik Barns is a Panthers fan who is also a Gamecock fan. He says he is looking forward to seeing rookie former USC star Xavier Legette shine in the NFL.
“For the Fan Fest specifically, I want to see Xavier Legette. I think seeing how him and Bryce Young connect,” said Barns. “I’m already a Gamecock fan, so this already feel kind of blasphemous to be here but really looking forward to see if Bryce takes that next step.”
Fans were treated with exclusive access to current and formers players such as Jonathan Stewart, who gave out autographs and took pictures.
This will be Dave Canales’ first season as head coach and fans say they are hoping to see some new things on the field.
Brian Jennings lives in Greenville and has attended many Fan Fests. He says he wants to see Panther’s offense improve.
“First and foremost is the front five got to see and make sure than the offensive lines doing their job to protect and take care of Bryce give him time to get the ball to Xavier Legette,” said Jennings. “So that’s definitely two things the offensive line and the receivers as well as the chemistry with Bryce Young.”
Barns says he thinks things are going to turn around for the better this season.
“On the field this season I really want to see what coach Canales can do with the team I really think there’s a lot of talent and I think they’re undersold,” said Barns. “So I think it will be really interesting to turn around what would have been a great year last year and do better.”
Last season, the Panthers were 2-15.
The Panthers' first game of the preseason is against the New England Patriots on August 8th.