The Carolina Panthers hired Tim Lewis as their new secondary coach. Lewis was fired by the New York Giants last week as the team's defensive coordinator. After two solid seasons turned in by Lewis with the Giants. After the team's debacle this season though, someone had to be a scapegoat.

Lewis will be taking over for Rod Perry in Carolina. Perry was fired by the Panthers on Monday.

"Tim's experience as both a player and coach in the NFL provide him with a sound knowledge of the defensive backfield," said Panthers head coach John Fox. "Our staff is familiar with him and we think he will make strong contribution to our defense."

The Panthers' secondary, which was supposed to be a bright spot this season, didn't turn out that way. While cornerback Ken Lucas was hindered by injuries, youngster cornerback Chris Gamble and safety Mike Minter didn't have the best of seasons.