The Panthers owner wants to see long-term success at the highest level, and that's something only a handful of franchises can boast in this league.

One of those franchises is the Pittsburgh Steelers – the team Tepper grew up cheering for before becoming a minority owner.

And the Steelers' greatness began when Chuck Noll took over in 1969.

"He built a program that has lasted through three coaches," Tepper said of Noll. "That's what I hope Matt Rhule can do for us here. He's a program builder."

Rhule's first Temple team went 2-10. The Owls went 10-4 and 10-3 in his final two years.

Rhule's first Baylor team went 1-11. The Bears went 11-3 this past season. It was an incredible turnaround that got everyone's attention.

The Panthers did their research on Rhule. They knew all about his ability to create a winning culture. They knew he would be a top candidate before speaking to him.

But midway through the interview at his home in Waco, Tepper and others on the search committee all came to the same realization: He was the candidate.