Despite watching their team post the best record in the NFL during the most magical regular-season in franchise history, a sizable segment of the Carolina Panthers' fan base was strangely scared this weekend. Many had hoped the Vikings would knock out the Seahawks, who until October, had been Cam Newton & Co.'s biggest nemesis.

But like Robin Swallows, Seattle refuses to die.

After escaping frigid Minneapolis, the two-time defending NFC champs will visit Bank of America Stadium next Sunday for their second Divisional Round meeting with the Panthers in as many Januarys.

Because of the recent series history, it's impossible not to argue that of their three possible opponents, the Seahawks presents the toughest challenge to the Panthers. But it'd be a shame if fans fail to embrace the week ahead.

No matter what happens on the field, the anticipation and buildup is what being in a big-time playoff spotlight is all about.

 

1) To Be the Man, You've Gotta Beat the Man

 

That line from Ric Flair, who many considered the biggest "sports" star to represent the Carolinas until Newton was drafted, is a solid one to recite this week.

There may have been an easier path to the Super Bowl, but there's plenty of respect to be gained by trekking through the toughest route.

 

2) Be Careful What You Wish For

 

Do the Seahawks match up well with the Panthers? Sure. Will many #haters in the national media pick Seattle to win? Yup. But there's no guarantee the Panthers would have gotten past Green Bay. 

These Packers aren't as elite as the weight of their history implies, but they showed plenty of life in their Wild Card rout of Washington. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers nearly brought the Pack back from 23 down in Charlotte back in Week 9 and the NFL's reigning MVP is a VERY tough out in the postseason.

 

3) Relevancy

 

Ron Rivera knew it when he came to Carolina – the Panthers wouldn't be relevant until they started having sustained success. While three straight postseasons is a run the franchise has never experienced, the next step is winning hyped-up playoff games in front of huge national audiences.

Tired of hearing that your team had a soft schedule? Eliminating the NFC's reigning big dog could help change the narrative.

 

4) The New Brady Vs. Manning?

 

This isn't meant to be a direct comparison between two of the greatest quarterbacks in history to a couple of 20-somethings. But with Tom Brady and Peyton Manning near or even at the end of their careers, they'll have to make way for a new marquee rivalry soon enough. Newton and Seattle's Russell Wilson look like obvious candidates.

Wilson has a ring and four victories over Newton, but he's never hoisted the NFL MVP trophy like the Panthers' quarterback is destined to do next month. And here's an interesting stat ...

Including next Sunday, head-to-head meetings in their first four seasons as starters:

Newton/Wilson — 6
Brady/Manning — 5