In a stunning turnaround, the Carolina Panthers notched their first win of the season with a convincing 36-22 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. Quarterback Andy Dalton, who replaced struggling rookie Bryce Young, led the charge with three first-half touchdown passes and a calm, composed demeanor that inspired his teammates.
Dalton’s relaxed attitude was a welcome change from the team’s dismal 0-2 start, which saw them lose by a combined 60 points. Coach Dave Canales had benched Young in favor of the 36-year-old veteran, seeking a spark to jump-start the offense. Dalton delivered, completing 26 of 37 passes for 319 yards and three touchdowns.
The Panthers’ offense, which had been stagnant in the first two games, came alive with Dalton at the helm. Wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who had been acquired to help Young improve, finished with a career-high 122 yards and a touchdown on eight catches. The running game also flourished, with Chuba Hubbard rushing for 114 yards and catching five passes for 55 yards and a touchdown.
Canales, who has emphasized the importance of “complementary football,” was thrilled with the team’s complete performance. “That’s Panthers football, team football right there,” he said. “I get to show them that, and I get to show them how it all complements and plays off each other.”
For Dalton, the game was a vindication of his ability to still play winning football at the end of his career. For Young, it was a harsh reminder that he needs time to develop. As the Panthers celebrated their victory, Young was seen observing from the sideline, his expression unreadable.
The win marked a turning point for the Panthers, who had been struggling to find their identity. With Dalton leading the charge, they finally seemed to have found their groove. As Dalton said, “Guys were having fun. I was just trying to make sure guys were having fun, because you put in a ton of work for this thing… and now you get a time to just go and enjoy the work you put in.”
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