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Carolina Panthers announce alternate black helmet, all-black uniforms

CHARLOTTE — The Carolina Panthers announced Tuesday that they will wear alternate black helmets and all-black uniforms for the first time in franchise history.

The new combo will be worn for the team’s nationally-televised Thursday night game against the Atlanta Falcons on Nov. 10 at Bank of America Stadium. It will be the only time this season the combo will be worn, according to the team.

With newly relaxed rules on alternate helmets, fans will see the new look on a national stage. The NFL required teams to have only one look for the season in previous years.

Panthers players said they welcome a different look on the field, hoping it translates success on the field.

“Sometimes guys tap into an alter ego depending on what they’re wearing. Whenever a team wears all black, or black accessories, it just brings out that dog in them, the evil side,” Panthers defensive end Brian Burns said. “When I saw this, I was like, ‘This will be tough.’ Especially on defense, they call us the dark side anyway, so it brings it all together.”

The new season for Panthers starts Sept. 11 against the Cleveland Browns.

(Watch below: Panthers hold news conference with QB Baker Mayfield and general manager)