In a thrilling turn of events, the Carolina Panthers finally broke their 20-game drought of not scoring a touchdown on their opening drive, thanks to the leadership of quarterback Andy Dalton. On Sunday, Dalton orchestrated a masterful drive against the Raiders, culminating in a 6-yard touchdown run by running back Chuba Hubbard. This marked the Panthers’ first lead of any kind since their Week 13 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The last time the Panthers had scored a touchdown on their opening drive was in Week 17 of the 2022 season, also against the Buccaneers. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers have now taken over the unwanted streak, failing to score on their first drive for 20 consecutive games.
Dalton, who was reinstated as the starter earlier in the week, shone bright on the opening drive, completing 5 of 6 passes for 52 yards and the touchdown. His impressive performance continued into the second half, where he threw his third touchdown pass of the game, a 31-yard beauty caught by receiver Adam Thielen. This marked the Panthers’ largest first-half lead since their Week 16 matchup against the Detroit Lions in 2022.
Notably, this is the first time the Panthers have had three touchdown passes in the first half of a game since 2015, during Cam Newton’s MVP season. The Panthers’ resurgence has injected new life into their season, and fans are eagerly anticipating their next move.
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