How would no fans at Bank of America Stadium impact the Panthers?
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers might not get the chance to perform in front of their own fans this season.
The current climate has thrown the entire globe into a state of uncertainty. The Carolina Panthers have not escaped this. And it could leave the 2020 season with a completely different feel to it.
Although the Carolina Panthers and other NFL teams are scheduled to make a return to training camp by mid-July. There is a real chance that Bank of America Stadium will have no fans in the stands by the time competitive action begins.
This is an ever-changing situation and one that is rightfully being approached with extreme caution. A second wave would almost certainly have significant repercussions on successfully completing the NFL campaign. So putting the necessary measures in place is absolutely essential.
Some coaching staff has already been allowed to make a return to team facilities. Players who are rehabbing injuries can now do so at their base. And it remains to be seen just what sort of interaction the Panthers will have with their new-look roster by the time the season gets underway.
Playing at BOA Stadium with no atmosphere is going to take some time to get used to. It will be interesting to see how different players cope in unfamiliar surroundings. And taking out crowd noise could all-but negate the home-field advantage for all teams across the NFL.
Carolina’s owner David Tepper outlined his hope that there would be at least some fans able to witness games in 2020. But the longer restrictions are in place, the less chance this eventuality will come to fruition.
How will no fans at Bank of America Stadium impact the Carolina Panthers?
Having no crowd noise at home games could go either way for the Carolina Panthers. And it ultimately comes down to what motivates a particular player.
Some absolutely thrive with the extra pressure of playing in a loud arena. They like nothing more than that extra bit of adrenaline that comes with a fanbase roaring you on. And the Carolina Panthers support at BOA Stadium is louder than most.
On the flip side, it can have an adverse effect on players. This is particularly evident for those who are out of form or trying to impress. And having the spotlight put on them further has the scope to bring its own set of complications.
It will also be a blow financially to the organization. But as long as the games are still being shown on TV, then the impact will be minimal to a billionaire such as Tepper. The Panthers have some ambitious plans off the field in the coming years. And this is not expected to set them back too much.
Having no fans in the stands at BOA Stadium should also improve communication during in-game situations. Although the Panthers do get some quiet from their supporters on offense. There is often a recognizable backdrop and new quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, together with Carolina’s new-look offensive line, could benefit the most if this ruling comes to pass.
Fans are absolutely starving for sport at the present time. League across the world are starting to resume amid restrictions. And although there is nothing like being there in person, those that love the NFL just want to see it start on time.