Panthers retain Ron Rivera as head coach

Charlotte, NC, United States (4E Sports) – A strong finish by the Carolina Panthers in the regular season helped head coach Ron Rivera keep his job for at least one more year

The team announced Saturday that Rivera will stay at the helm after he met with team owner Jerry Richardson.

The Panthers won five of their last six games to finish the season with a 7-9 mark.

In Rivera’s first season in 2011, the Panthers improved from 2-14 to 6-10 in Rivera’s first season, mainly due to No. 1 overall pick Cam Newton’s outstanding play.

In his second year, expectations skyrocketed but the Panthers didn’t live up to them as they started the season with a 3-9 record.

However, the Panthers scored four consecutive wins to end the season and save Rivera’s job as well. In two seasons with Carolina, Rivera has a 13-19 record.

The Panthers are also expected to end their search for a new general manager with the New York Giants’ Marc Ross and Dave Gettleman as top outside candidates.

Carolina is also considering interim GM Brandon Beane.

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