The rivalry between the Cowboys and Panthers has produced some of the most thrilling and memorable games in NFL history. Over the years, these two teams have faced off in intense battles, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. In this blog post, we take a trip down memory lane to revisit ten of the most epic showdowns between the Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers.
1. The 2003 NFC Wild Card Game: A Thriller
Kicking off our list is the 2003 NFC Wild Card Game, a thrilling encounter that showcased the intensity of this rivalry. With a trip to the Divisional Round on the line, the Cowboys and Panthers put on a display of pure NFL excellence. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows throughout. In the end, it was the Panthers who emerged victorious, claiming a 29-10 win and advancing to the next round. This game set the tone for future matchups, proving that these teams were more than capable of delivering high-octane, heart-stopping football.
2. A High-Scoring Affair in 2013
The 2013 season saw another high-scoring encounter between these two teams. In Week 12, the Cowboys traveled to Carolina for a Monday Night Football showdown. The game lived up to its billing, with both offenses clicking and putting up points. The Cowboys, led by Tony Romo, put up an impressive 28 points, but it was the Panthers’ Cam Newton who stole the show. Newton threw for 246 yards and 3 touchdowns, leading his team to a 33-14 victory. This game showcased the offensive firepower of both teams and set the stage for future high-scoring battles.
3. The 2009 Regular Season: A Sweep for the Panthers
In 2009, the Panthers dominated the Cowboys, sweeping the regular season series. The first meeting, in Week 6, saw the Panthers secure a comfortable 21-0 victory. The second game, in Week 13, was a closer affair, but the Panthers once again came out on top, winning 20-19. These victories not only showcased the Panthers’ dominance over the Cowboys but also highlighted the team’s ability to rise to the occasion and perform when it mattered most.
4. A Monday Night Classic in 2008
The 2008 season brought us a Monday Night Football classic between these two teams. In Week 9, the Cowboys traveled to Carolina for a highly anticipated matchup. The game did not disappoint, as it featured a back-and-forth battle with momentum shifting multiple times. The Cowboys, led by Tony Romo, put up a valiant effort, but it was the Panthers who emerged victorious, winning 27-23. This game was a testament to the competitiveness of this rivalry and the ability of both teams to deliver exciting, edge-of-your-seat football.
5. The 2014 Divisional Round: A Heartbreaker for the Cowboys
The 2014 Divisional Round matchup between the Cowboys and Panthers was a heartbreaker for Dallas fans. The Cowboys, who had enjoyed a successful regular season, entered the game as favorites. However, the Panthers had other plans. In a tightly contested game, the Panthers’ defense stepped up, shutting down the Cowboys’ offense and securing a 27-16 victory. This game not only ended the Cowboys’ season but also highlighted the Panthers’ defensive prowess and their ability to rise to the occasion in the playoffs.
6. A Defensive Battle in 2016
The 2016 season saw a defensive battle between these two teams. In Week 10, the Cowboys traveled to Carolina for a highly anticipated matchup. Both teams’ defenses were on full display, with each unit making key stops and forcing turnovers. The game remained close throughout, with neither team able to pull away. In the end, it was the Cowboys who emerged victorious, winning a low-scoring affair 10-7. This game showcased the importance of defense in the NFL and the ability of both teams to adapt and rise to the challenge.
7. The 2015 Regular Season: A Split Decision
The 2015 regular season saw a split decision between the Cowboys and Panthers. In Week 4, the Panthers hosted the Cowboys and emerged victorious, winning 27-16. However, the Cowboys got their revenge in Week 15, defeating the Panthers 33-14. These games showcased the competitive nature of this rivalry, with both teams able to dominate and rise to the occasion when needed.
8. A High-Stakes Showdown in 2018
The 2018 season brought us a high-stakes showdown between these two teams. In Week 15, the Cowboys traveled to Carolina for a game that had major playoff implications. The Panthers, fighting for a playoff spot, put on a dominant performance, led by Cam Newton. Newton threw for 171 yards and 2 touchdowns, while the Panthers’ defense shut down the Cowboys’ offense. The Panthers emerged victorious, winning 32-16, and kept their playoff hopes alive. This game showcased the intensity of this rivalry and the importance of every game in the NFL.
9. The 2010 Regular Season: A Sweep for the Cowboys
In 2010, the Cowboys dominated the Panthers, sweeping the regular season series. The first meeting, in Week 11, saw the Cowboys secure a convincing 35-17 victory. The second game, in Week 17, was even more dominant, with the Cowboys winning 17-14. These victories not only showcased the Cowboys’ dominance over the Panthers but also highlighted the team’s ability to perform consistently throughout the season.
10. A Monday Night Battle in 2021
The 2021 season brought us a Monday Night Football battle between these two teams. In Week 5, the Cowboys hosted the Panthers in a highly anticipated matchup. The game lived up to its billing, with both teams putting on an offensive display. The Cowboys, led by Dak Prescott, put up an impressive 36 points, while the Panthers, led by Sam Darnold, kept pace with 28 points of their own. In the end, it was the Cowboys who emerged victorious, winning 36-28. This game showcased the offensive firepower of both teams and the ability of these rivals to put on a show for the fans.
Conclusion
The rivalry between the Cowboys and Panthers has produced some of the most exciting and memorable games in NFL history. From high-scoring affairs to defensive battles, these teams have delivered time and time again. Whether it’s a Monday Night Football classic or a playoff showdown, these teams never fail to entertain. As we look back on these ten showdowns, we’re reminded of the intensity, competitiveness, and pure excitement that defines this rivalry. Here’s to many more thrilling battles between the Cowboys and Panthers in the years to come!
What is the all-time record between the Cowboys and Panthers?
+
The Cowboys lead the all-time series with a record of 13-8.
Which team has the most wins in this rivalry?
+
The Cowboys have the most wins in this rivalry, with 13 victories.
Have the Cowboys and Panthers ever met in the Super Bowl?
+
No, the Cowboys and Panthers have never met in the Super Bowl.
Who has the most passing yards in this rivalry?
+
Tony Romo holds the record for most passing yards in this rivalry, with 2,421 yards.
Which team has the most rushing yards in this rivalry?
+
The Panthers hold the record for most rushing yards in this rivalry, with 2,103 yards.
