Who were the studs and duds in South Beach for the Carolina Panthers on Sunday?
Let’s sort them out following the team’s 42-21 loss to the Miami Dolphins.
Stud: QB Bryce Young
The numbers won’t tell the entire story, as he completed 23 of his 38 passes for 217 yards and a touchdown. But this year’s No. 1 overall pick undoubtedly had himself his best pro outing yet.
Between his poise, playmaking and placement, Young showed exactly why the Panthers are still excited to build around him. He also held on to the ball, committing zero turnovers in the face of some persistent pressure.
Dud: Panthers' pass protection
That pressure, in part, stalled what Young and the offense had going. The rookie ate four sacks on the afternoon.
Stud: RB Chuba Hubbard
The hog mollies did, however, bring a bit of push on the ground—which Hubbard certainly took advantage. In place of an injured Miles Sanders, the third-year back ran for 88 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries.
Dud: Panthers' pass rush
On the other side of the token, and the ball, the Miami offensive line stood strong despite fielding backups at left tackle and center. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who completed 21 of his 31 throws for 262 yards and three touchdowns, was hit just once.
Stud: WR Adam Thielen
Per usual, the 33-year-old vet balled out. Thielen recorded a team-high 11 receptions and 115 yards, including an 8-yard touchdown catch.
He’s now up to three 100-yard receiving games through five outings.
Dud: Panthers receivers not named Adam Thielen
Outside of Thielen, no Carolina pass catcher had more than 26 receiving yards on the day. Separation remains an issue, even when Young was dealing into tight windows.
