Panthers Find New Spark with Veteran QB Andy Dalton
Before Week 3, the Carolina Panthers were struggling to ignite any offensive momentum, mustering just one touchdown early in the season. However, a pivotal change at quarterback during their game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium signaled a potential shift in fortunes.
In a strategic lineup adjustment, the Panthers benched former No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young after persistent struggles extending from his rookie year into his sophomore season. Stepping into the spotlight, veteran quarterback Andy Dalton seized the opportunity to turn the narrative around for Carolina.
Dalton’s Leadership Spurs Early Scoring
Dalton's impact was felt immediately. Leading the Panthers on their first drive without Young, Dalton orchestrated a meticulous 70-yard march over nine plays, culminating in a precise 6-yard touchdown pass to running back Chuba Hubbard. This effort marked their first touchdown drive led by Dalton this season and their initial lead of 2024.
The Raiders quickly responded, with Alexander Mattison bulldozing his way into the end zone on a 2-yard rush, tying the game in the first quarter. However, Dalton and the Panthers were far from finished.
Dalton Drives Momentum
Answering the call once more, Dalton conducted a strategic 75-yard drive, finding wide receiver Diontae Johnson for a 5-yard touchdown pass to reclaim the lead. Building on this momentum, the Panthers extended their advantage to 14 points as Dalton showcased his veteran prowess.
Before the halftime whistle, Dalton further displayed his versatility, delivering his third touchdown pass of the day to a third different target. This time, it was wide receiver Adam Thielen who benefited from Dalton’s precision, scoring on an impressive 31-yard pass.
Stanford Performance in the First Half
By the end of the first half, Carolina had put 21 points on the board—surpassing their combined score from the previous two games. Dalton’s performance was nothing short of stellar, completing 15 of 22 passes for 212 yards and three touchdowns within two quarters. His yardage eclipsed the totals Bryce Young had achieved in either of the first two games, a testament to Dalton's immediate impact.
Furthermore, Dalton was just 34 yards short of surpassing Young’s combined passing yards from Week 1 and Week 2. Young’s early-season efforts had been marred by inconsistency, with statistics of 31 completions on 56 attempts for 245 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions, including a pick on his first drive of the season.
A Season Marred by Early Struggles
Until the game against the Raiders, the Panthers' only trip to the end zone had been a 3-yard rush by Young. Their scoring had otherwise been restricted to two field goals through the season's first two weeks. Young’s overall record before being benched stood at 2-16 across 18 starts, with a total of 3,122 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions—a stark contrast to Dalton’s seasoned career.
Dalton's Veteran Experience Shines Through
In his 14th year in the NFL, Andy Dalton boasts an 83-78-2 record as a starter, amassing 38,511 yards with 246 touchdowns and 144 interceptions. His wealth of experience and calm under pressure were on full display against the Raiders, suggesting a new dynamic in the Panthers’ offensive strategy.
It remains to be seen how this decisive quarterback change will shape the Panthers' season. However, Dalton’s leadership and efficient execution in this critical game have certainly provided Carolina with a glimmer of hope and momentum moving forward.