Wounded Panthers Lure Vinny Out of Retirement

Carr will steer division-leading Carolina for the rest of the season

(NEWSER) - After a disappointing throwing session today, Panthers gunslinger Jake Delhomme will undergo season-ending surgery on his right elbow, ceding the starting spot to Houston castoff David Carr, who himself played through serious back pain to lead Carolina over New Orleans last weekend. Delhomme, a Pro Bowler, will require a rehab period of seven to nine months. More»

In Houston, Texans finish at .500 for first time in franchise history

(NEWSER) - Vinny Testaverde ended his pro football career where it began—in Tampa—taking the final snap of Carolina's 31-23 meaningless win over the Buccaneers. The Panthers took advantage of Tampa resting seven starters in preparation for next week's playoff game against the New York Giants. Leaving the field, Testaverde hugged his wife and said "That's it. It's all over." In other action: More»

Elsewhere, Minnesota rips Detroit, Carolina crushes San Fran

(NEWSER) - The Philadelphia Eagles, missing starting QB Donovan McNabb, nearly pulled off a dramatic comeback today after a 64-yard punt return by do-it-all running back Brian Westbrook. But Seattle linebacker Lofa Tatupu intercepted A.J. Feeley for the third time with seconds to go in the game sealing a 28-24 victory at Philadelphia, reports Philly.com. In other NFL action: More»

Carr demolished, Cadillac banged up in 20-7 drubbing of divisional rivals

(NEWSER) - Tampa Bay took sole possession of first in the chaotic AFC South with a 20-7 blowout over rival Carolina, but the trouncing demanded a stiff toll. Starting tailback Carnell "Cadillac" Williams and tackle Luke Petitgout both suffered season-ending injuries. Williams tore his right patellar tendon, Petitgout the ACL in his right knee. More»

(AP) - The Arizona Cardinals were expected by most to be easy prey in another futile trip to the East Coast. Instead, the Cardinals are a victory away from their first Super Bowl appearance—with a big assist from Jake Delhomme and the bumbling Carolina Panthers. The once discarded Kurt Warner was steady in a 33-13 rout of the Panthers, throwing two touchdown passes, while Delhomme threw five interceptions and lost a fumble. More»