CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers’ undefeated home record was shattered as they faced a tough 40-9 defeat against the Buffalo Bills. With Bryce Young sidelined due to an ankle injury, veteran quarterback Andy Dalton took the helm. However, the 37-year-old struggled, with the Bills’ defense forcing a turnover and intercepting a screen attempt. James Cook was a standout for the Bills, rushing for 216 yards on 19 carries, including a 64-yard touchdown run. Cook also scored two touchdowns, contributing significantly to the Bills’ victory. The Panthers managed to score late in the game but were unable to recover from the deficit. Carolina will next face the Green Bay Packers on Sunday at 1 p.m.
In Denver, Javonte Williams had a strong performance against his former teammates, scoring two touchdowns on 13 carries for 41 yards. Despite his efforts, the Broncos fell to the Cowboys 44-24.
In Baltimore, Keaton Mitchell made an impact in his second game of the season, helping the Ravens snap a four-game losing streak with a 30-16 win over the Bears. Mitchell had four carries for 43 yards, including a 25-yard run.
In the CFL, Justin Hardy surpassed 1,000 receiving yards for the third consecutive year, finishing the season with 1,019 yards. Hardy is set to be inducted into the ECU Hall of Fame on Nov. 8.
In the NBA, Bam Adebayo recorded his second double-double of the season, leading the Miami Heat to a 115-107 victory over the New York Knicks. Brandon Ingram scored 22 points for the Raptors, but Toronto fell to the Dallas Mavericks 139-129. Cooper Flagg shone for the Mavericks with 22 points.
In college basketball, Duke’s Cameron Boozer impressed with 24 points, 23 rebounds, and six assists in an 83-76 exhibition win over Tennessee.
In NASCAR, William Byron secured a spot in the Championship 4 after a strong performance at Martinsville. The championship race will take place next Sunday in Phoenix at 3 p.m.
In volleyball, the East Regional Finals are set, with J.H. Rose hosting Grays Creek and a rematch between Cardinal Gibbons and D.H. Conley. Midway will travel to Ayden-Grifton for the 3A matchup. Exciting times for Pitt County teams.