Carolina Panthers strong safety Roman Harper is a five-time NFC South champion, but now the former Alabama standout is one game away from appearing in a second Super Bowl.
Harper, a 10-year veteran, had four tackles in Carolina’s 31-24 win Sunday over the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle outplayed the Panthers in the second half, yet Harper remained vigilant.
He excelled in run support, limiting the Seahawks to 78 rushing yards. A native of Prattville, Ala., Harper has been a major component in Carolina’s nearly flawless season at 15-1.
He chimes in with 73 total tackles, two tackles for loss, five passes defended and two fumble recoveries. Carolina’s last Super Bowl run came in 2003, while Harper’s latest pro football championship happened in 2009 with the New Orleans Saints.
He and the Panthers will battle Arizona next week for an opportunity to play in Super Bowl 50 at Levi’s Stadium.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.
