Sir Purr
Well-known member
- Mar 16, 2019
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Originally a Broncos' fourth-round pick in 2007, Hixon had spent most of his career with the Giants, winning two Super Bowls with the club. He signed a one-year deal with the Panthers in 2013 and played mostly special teams, totaling just three receptions before Week 16. But after wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. injured his knee in the first half against the Saints, Carolina turned to Hixon.
"When Steve can't go, you know there is something wrong," Hixon said that day. "It was like my big brother, and I wanted to make him proud."
Hixon was used to lining up for Smith when the Panthers' legend needed a breather in practice, but this was a tall task given the game's stakes. Hixon proved to be up to the moment, catching the game-winning touchdown pass in the front-left corner of the end zone from quarterback Cam Newton to cap a five-play, 65-yard drive.