Panthers...31 49ers...14
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Behind an ancient quarterback, a suddenly diverse playbook and a dominating defense, the Carolina Panthers finally tasted victory at home.
Vinny Testaverde threw two touchdown passes in the Panthers’ 31-14 win over the San Francisco 49ers, Carolina’s first home win in more than a year.
Using razzle-dazzle rarely seen under conservative Coach John Fox, the Panthers (5-7) ended a seven-game home losing streak dating to last season with Testaverde, who at 44 years, 19 days became the second-oldest starting quarterback in NFL history.
Testaverde also became the oldest starter to win, besting his own record set seven weeks ago in Arizona -- Carolina’s last win.
Trent Dilfer threw for 171 yards and two touchdowns, but was intercepted four times and hit all day by Carolina’s much-maligned defense. The 49ers (3-9) committed six turnovers.
Quoteworthy: “Not that today was perfect, but it seemed like the guys were having fun and making plays.” -- Vinny Testaverde, Panthers quarterback
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