Andy Dalton Sparks Carolina Panthers’ Offense Against Raiders

The Carolina Panthers demonstrated a revived offensive performance in their game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, led by veteran quarterback Andy Dalton. Playing in Week 3 at Allegiant Stadium, Dalton’s leadership provided the Panthers an early lead, marking their first of the 2024 season.

Formerly the team’s starting quarterback, Bryce Young found himself benched due to continued struggles dating back to his rookie year. His replacement, Dalton, made an immediate impact with a strong opening drive. The veteran quarterback orchestrated a 70-yard, nine-play drive that concluded with a 6-yard touchdown pass to running back Chuba Hubbard.

The Las Vegas Raiders quickly responded, tying the game with a 2-yard rushing touchdown by Alexander Mattison. However, Dalton and the Panthers struck back, with Dalton leading a 75-yard drive that finished with a 5-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Diontae Johnson, reclaiming the lead.

Through the first half, Dalton completed 15 of 22 passes for 212 yards and three touchdowns. His performance not only surpassed Young’s output from the first two games but also positioned Dalton as a potential long-term starter, at least in the short term. Panthers’ wide receiver Adam Thielen added to the scoreboard with a 31-yard touchdown reception, extending Carolina’s lead to 21 points before halftime.

Dalton’s command of the game was evident as he involved multiple offensive players, spreading the ball for touchdowns to three different team members. The Panthers’ offensive output of 21 points by halftime exceeded their combined scores from their initial two games of the season.

Young’s early season struggles included a record of 31 completions on 56 attempts, amassing only 245 yards, with no touchdowns and three interceptions. In contrast, before Sunday, the Panthers’ sole touchdown was a 3-yard rush by Young, supplemented only by two field goals over two weeks.

The team’s decision to start Dalton came after Young had compiled a record of 2-16 in 18 starts, throwing for 3,122 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 13 interceptions. Meanwhile, Dalton, in his extensive 14-year NFL career, boasts a record of 83-78-2 as a starter, with a cumulative 38,511 yards, 246 touchdowns, and 144 interceptions.