MILLS, GREENE AMONG HALL OF FAME SEMIFINALISTS:The Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2016 was trimmed down to 25 on Tuesday and former Panthers Sam Mills and Kevin Greene were among the semifinalists. This marks the first time Mills has ascended to semifinalist status, while it is the 10th year Greene has appeared on that list. Greene spent three seasons with Carolina (1996, 98-99) and recorded 41.5 sacks in 47 starts.

Mills will always hold a special place in Panthers lore, a legacy he created well before his untimely death at the age of 45. Following nine seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Mills spent his final three seasons leading the Panthers through their first three NFL seasons, keying the first victory in franchise history in 1995 with a memorable interception return for a touchdown. His second season produced his fifth Pro Bowl appearance and his third All-Pro honor.

One year after his retirement, Mills became the first (and still the only) player inducted into the Carolina Panthers Hall of Honor – the same year he joined the coaching staff. Early in his sixth season on the sideline, in 2003, he was diagnosed with cancer. Despite a dire diagnosis, Mills remained on the staff the entire season and became an inspirational leader – capped by his "Keep Pounding" speech – for a team that advanced all the way to the Super Bowl. Panthers.com Senior Writer Bryan Strickland made the case for Mills prior the the start of the season. Read his column here.

CAM NEWTON MIC'D UP:  QB Cam Newton was wired for sound during the Panthers Week 11 victory over Washington. Check out the video below to experience Cam mic'd up.

NORMAN VS. BRYANT:Jonathan Jones of the Charlotte Observer looks at one of the most exciting player-on-player matchups for Thursday's game. READ MORE

PLAYOFF POSSIBILITIES:Bill Voth of the Black and Blue Review looks at the seven ways the Panthers can clinch a playoff berth with a win or tie vs. Dallas on Thursday. READ MORE

EALY MOTIVATED BY FATHERHOOD: Max Henson of Panthers.com writes that Kony Ealy is more motivated than ever following the birth of his daughter. READ MORE