"To many Carolina Panthers' fans, Julius Peppers' show of emotion as he helped his new team, the Chicago Bears, roll to a convincing 23-6 victory had to be infuriating.

After all, Peppers was often criticized by even the most ardent Panthers' supporters for being too passive or failing to maximize the wondrous talents of his 6-foot-7, 283-pound body – or both.

But in Sunday's victory, Peppers twice motioned to Bank of America Stadium fans who booed his every tackle by motioning them to be quiet.

Afterwards, Peppers said his actions were all in fun. Besides, there were some cheers for the former football and basketball star at the University of North Carolina who spent his first nine seasons playing for the Panthers.

"It was fun," said Peppers, who was officially credited with four tackles, a quarterback hurry and a pass interception of a pass he deflected. "It felt great. I saw a lot of old faces. I tried to see everybody I could. It wasn't akward or anything. It was just another game once it got started.

"I found myself being a little bit more winded earlier with all the energy. I guess it was nervous energy."

When asked if motioning to fans to be quiet by putting his finger to his helmet as to say "Shhhh," was a statement, Peppers offered: "Not really. I was just having a little fun with the crowd. I wasn't taking it (boos) personal. Neither should they."

Peppers, who got 15 tickets for friends and family, admitted the game was strange for him. His coach, Lovie Smith, understand that as well."