Andy Dalton Leads Panthers to First Win, Raises Questions About Bryce Young

Carolina quarterback Andy Dalton impressed in a 36-22 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, raising questions about the benching of first-round pick Bryce Young and the Panthers' future.

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – The Carolina Panthers shocked the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, securing their first win of the season with a 36-22 victory. The triumph was largely due to the impressive play of quarterback Andy Dalton, who put up a remarkable performance in his first start since being named the starter over top overall pick Bryce Young. Dalton's performance has reignited discussions about Young's future with the Panthers.

Dalton's impact was felt immediately, leading a 70-yard scoring drive on the Panthers' opening possession. Running back Chubba Hubbard capped off the drive with a six-yard touchdown reception, marking the first touchdown by a non-quarterback for Carolina this season.

Andy Dalton Leads Panthers to First Win, Raises Questions About Bryce Young

The Raiders responded with a touchdown drive of their own, but Dalton and the Panthers remained unfazed. Dalton found wide receiver Diontae Johnson for a five-yard score, giving Carolina a 14-7 lead.

Dalton's dominance continued in the second quarter, connecting with veteran receiver Adam Thielen for a 31-yard touchdown. Thielen suffered a hamstring injury on the play and did not return, but his contribution had already made a significant impact.

Andy Dalton Leads Panthers to First Win, Raises Questions About Bryce Young

The second half saw Dalton continue to orchestrate scoring drives for Carolina. Back-to-back field goals extended the lead, followed by a touchdown run by running back Miles Sanders. The Raiders showed some life with a touchdown pass from Gardner Minshew to Jakobi Meyers, but Minshew's next drive ended in an interception, leading to his benching in favor of Aidan O'Connell.

Despite a late touchdown drive by O'Connell, the Panthers held on for the victory. Dalton finished the game with 304 passing yards and three touchdowns, while Johnson had eight catches for 122 yards. Hubbard's all-around contributions included 114 rushing yards and five receptions for 55 yards.

Andy Dalton Leads Panthers to First Win, Raises Questions About Bryce Young

The Panthers' win raises questions about the decision to bench Young. Young, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has struggled in his first two starts. Dalton, on the other hand, has shown that he can be an effective leader for this team.

Head coach Dave Canales has a difficult decision to make regarding the quarterback position. Young is the franchise's future, but Dalton's performance has shown that he is capable of winning games. The Panthers' next game is against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and it will be interesting to see if Canales sticks with Dalton or gives Young another chance.

Regardless of who starts at quarterback, the Panthers' victory is a positive sign for a team that many believed would struggle this season. The win shows that the Panthers have talent and that they are capable of competing.