Greg Hardy will start the Carolina Panthers' home opener Sunday against the Detroit Lions with no new developments in his domestic violence case. Hardy missed practice Wednesday to meet with his attorney, but coach Ron Rivera announced the decision to start Hardy Friday after the defensive end practiced for a second straight day. The team's franchise player, Hardy has not been suspended by the NFL or the Panthers despite his conviction following an altercation with his ex-girlfriend at his apartment in March. Rivera acknowledged dealing with the Hardy situation - which has received added attention this week after Ray Rice was cut by the Baltimore Ravens and suspended indefinitely by the NFL - has been a distraction to players. More...