It’s happened!
Here’s everything we know from the Carolina Panthers’ very first win of the 2023 season:
Final score: Panthers 15, Texans 13
Keys to the game
- The Panthers offense hit its usual snags, as quarterback Bryce Young didn’t get much help from his pass catchers nor his offensive line. Nonetheless, the No. 1 overall pick remained poised and effective, completing 22 of his 31 throws for 235 yards and a score while leading a turnover-less performance.
- Speaking of top picks, Young’s counterpart was silenced throughout the afternoon by a stout Carolina defense. No. 2 overall pick C.J. Stroud connected on just 16 of his 24 attempts for a season-low 140 yards.
- Wide receiver Adam Thielen, once again, was a huge safety valve for Young. The 33-year-old vet kept the offense moving with 72 yards on eight grabs.
It was over when . . .
It was over when it was over—thanks to a walk-off field goal from kicker Eddy Piñeiro. “Steady Eddy” redeemed himself from a missed extra point in the second quarter, booting through a 23-yard chip shot to give the Panthers their first victory as time expired.
That game-winner was set up by an impressive 15-yard, 86-yard drive from Young and the offense—which ate up just over six minutes of the clock.
Players of the game
- LB Frankie Luvu: 12 tackles (two for loss), 1.0 sack
- QB Bryce Young: 22-of-31, 235 yards, touchdown
- WR Adam Thielen: eight receptions, 72 yards
What's next?
The 1-6 Panthers will be hosting the 3-5 (and unfortunately, Anthony Richardson-less) Indianapolis Colts next Sunday.
