North Charlotte Today

LAS VEGAS — The Carolina Panthers secured a crucial road victory, defeating the Las Vegas Raiders 36-22 at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday. This win improved their record to 1-2 for the season.

Quarterback Andy Dalton led the charge, throwing for 212 yards and three touchdowns in the first half alone. This marked the first time since 2015 that the Panthers threw for three scores in a single half. Dalton concluded the game with 319 yards on 26-of-37 passing, achieving a passer rating of 123.6.

The Panthers' offensive balance was evident as they amassed a total of 437 yards, surpassing their combined yardage from the first two games of the season. Running back Chuba Hubbard contributed significantly with 114 rushing yards on 21 carries and caught one of Dalton's touchdown passes, totaling 169 yards from scrimmage. Hubbard also moved up to seventh place on the franchise's all-time rushing list during this game.

Wide receivers Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen each caught touchdown passes in the first half, adding depth to the passing attack. Johnson finished with eight receptions for 122 yards and one touchdown, fulfilling expectations set when he was acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers in March.

However, Thielen left just before halftime due to an injury after his touchdown catch and did not return for the second half. Safety Jordan Fuller (hamstring), special teamer Lonnie Johnson (groin), and left guard Damien Lewis (elbow) also sustained injuries during the game.

The Panthers maintained a substantial lead throughout, ending a streak where they had not held a fourth-quarter lead in their last 20 games. A fourth-quarter touchdown run by Miles Sanders extended their advantage further.

Defensively, Mike Jackson secured an interception in the fourth quarter while stopping two Raiders' drives on downs. The Panthers won without committing any turnovers themselves.

The victory provided much-needed momentum for Carolina as they aim to build on this performance moving forward.

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