Mixed reviews on the Carolina Panthers' new logo

For the first time since they began NFL play in 1995, the Carolina Panthers have updated their logo.

The response from a casual observer might be ... really? It wasn't until we compared the new (above) with the old (below) that the differences became readily apparent.

The alterations include removing the outline around the panther and giving it a more 3-D feel.

The biggest change is to the type accompanying the logo. According to a news release, "the angle and graphic accents in the letters were custom created and inspired by the swift, sleek nature of a panther."

Comments on the team's website were mostly positive (or at least neutral) about the logo, although lskip89 thinks "it kinda makes the panther look like it has a swollen lip."

But most don't like the new type. A posting from Luttibelle said: "Like the new logo, not the new lettering. The old one looked more WILD, like a panther ought to look."

The team will phase in use of the new logo throughout 2012. It hasn't said if any changes are coming to the Panthers' uniforms.

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Speaking of change, the Houston Astros won't be making one.

New owner Jim Crane said last week that he was open to the idea of changing the team's name, but nixed it on Monday, The Associated Press reported.

Crane says he made the decision after receiving "strong feedback and consensus among season-ticket holders and many fans."

The team began play in 1962 as the Colt .45s. The name was changed to the Astros in 1965 to coincide with the team's move to the Astrodome.

Last season, the Astros finished a franchise-worst 56-106.

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