Carolina Panthers vs. New Orleans Saints

A December division game against the Saints, the second meeting of the season after the Nov. 15 game in New Orleans. By mid December the NFC South is usually still undecided, and Panthers vs. Saints has been close more often than not. Dress for it; December afternoons at the stadium run cold once the sun drops behind the upper deck.

Panthers home games take over Uptown for the afternoon. The lots along Mint Street and Morehead fill with tailgates hours ahead, the bars on South Tryon are standing room, and the Blue Line runs packed both directions. If you have never been, the pregame walk down Mint Street with the stadium at the end of it is the best part of the experience.

What to expect

• NFC South rivalry, second meeting of the year
• 1 p.m. kickoff in December
• Playoff positioning on the line most years

Schedule

• Morning Tailgate lots open and fill
• Kickoff See time above
• Postgame Uptown bars and the Blue Line are the fastest exits

Plan your visit

Tickets are on the Panthers’ site and Ticketmaster. Resale prices usually drop the week of the game for non division opponents.

Good to know

• The stadium is two blocks from the Blue Line. Stonewall and Carson stations are the closest stops, and the train is the fastest way out after the final whistle.
• Uptown decks fill an hour or more before kickoff. If you drive, park south of the stadium along South Tryon or in South End and walk in.
• Clear bag policy is enforced at every gate. Small clutches are fine; backpacks are not.
• Lots around the stadium open well before game time, and the tailgate scene along Mint Street and in the Morehead lots is worth arriving early for.