Brandt Tilis Executive Vice President Of Football Operations | Carolina Panthers Website
Brandt Tilis Executive Vice President Of Football Operations | Carolina Panthers Website
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — The Panthers' first offense showcased its potential in their preseason debut on Saturday afternoon, leading to a 31-26 victory over the Bills.
Quarterback Bryce Young led an efficient touchdown drive during his brief appearance, completing 6-of-8 passes for 70 yards and finishing with a passer rating of 140.6. His performance included a precise fourth-down conversion to wide receiver Diontae Johnson and a 21-yard pass to Adam Thielen, setting up a touchdown for tight end Jordan Matthews.
Young was supported by most of the starting lineup, although center Austin Corbett and left guard Damien Lewis were absent due to personal reasons. They were replaced by undrafted rookie Andrew Raym and second-year guard Chandler Zavala.
Running back Chuba Hubbard contributed three carries for 15 yards on the opening drive. Despite facing non-starters from the Bills, the offensive line displayed physicality.
An incident involving Jonathan Mingo and Bills cornerback Te'Cory Couch led to a minor altercation but no penalties were issued.
The Panthers' offense showed improvement compared to last year's preseason struggles. Backup quarterback Jack Plummer also performed well, throwing two touchdowns and completing 21-of-29 passes for 278 yards.
Special teams improved this week with Ihmir Smith-Marsette providing significant returns before leaving with an ankle injury. Center Austin Corbett shared news of his newborn son during halftime via social media.
However, injuries remain a concern as outside linebacker Cam Gill was carted off with an ankle injury after recording a sack. Kicker Eddy Piñeiro also sustained a right hamstring issue but managed to hit a 45-yard field goal before halftime.
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