CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers broke a four-year streak of losing their home openers with a decisive 30-0 victory over the Atlanta Falcons. Bryce Young set the tone early, capitalizing on an open pocket to score a 7-0 lead with a touchdown run. The Panthers’ defense was relentless, with Michael Penix Jr. intercepting a pass from Chah Smith Wade for a pick-six, extending Carolina’s lead to double digits.
Mike Jackson continued the defensive dominance, nearly returning another interception for a touchdown before being tackled. Rico Dowdle sealed the game with a final touchdown, marking the Panthers’ first shutout win in five years. The Panthers will face the New England Patriots next Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders, despite missing Jayden Daniels, triumphed over the Las Vegas Raiders with a 41-20 win. Marcus Mariota stepped up, leading the team to an early 7-0 lead. Jeremy McNichols showcased his determination with a 60-yard touchdown run, and Jaylen Lane added a 90-yard punt return touchdown.
In Nashville, former Tarboro star Tyquan Lewis recorded his first sack of the season for the Indianapolis Colts. Jonathan Taylor dazzled with three touchdowns, contributing to the Colts’ 41-20 victory over the Tennessee Titans, maintaining their undefeated record at 3-0.
The Dallas Cowboys faced a setback as Javonte Williams fumbled during a promising run, contributing to their 31-14 loss to the Chicago Bears. Williams finished with 76 yards on 10 carries.
East Carolina University struggled against BYU, falling 34-13. An early interception and a pick-six by Evan Johnson shifted momentum to the Cougars. ECU’s coach, Blake Harrell, emphasized the need for players to focus on their roles to secure future wins. The Pirates will host Army next Thursday.
In the CFL, former ECU player Tyler Snead is nearing a milestone, just 135 yards shy of his first 1,000-yard season with the Montreal Alouettes. Snead had five catches for 68 yards in their recent loss. Another former Pirate, Justin Hardy, recorded seven catches for 101 yards for the Ottawa Redblacks, marking his fourth 100-plus yard game this season.
On the racetrack, Ryan Blaney dominated in New Hampshire, securing his third Cup Series win of the season. This victory guarantees Blaney a spot in the Round of 8 next month.