Rewritten: Written by Clark Gerber, a contributor for WRAL Sports.

Carolina Panthers	21
Miami Dolphins	42
Final

During the first quarter of the game, the Carolina Panthers displayed their strongest performance and were on track to secure their first victory of the season.

Everything crumbled afterwards.

After starting with a lead of 14-0, the Panthers gave up 35 points without response, resulting in their second ever franchise record of 0-6.

“Panthers quarterback Bryce Young stated that we must earn the privilege to ensure that it is not just a temporary occurrence but rather a reflection of who we are.”

“I have complete faith in us that we will reach our destination, but it will take time.”

Carolina’s defensive unit struggled to contain the dynamic duo of Tua Tagovailoa and Raheem Mostert, who were instrumental in the Dolphins’ impressive comeback.

In just the second quarter, Tagovailoa managed to throw three touchdown passes. The first two were brief, with one going to Mostert and the other to Jaylen Waddle.

The third play, though, was a 41-yard long pass to Tyreek Hill, who was surprisingly left without any defensive coverage by Donte Jackson, resulting in Miami taking the lead.

Panthers’ head coach Frank Reich stated that they are familiar with their opponents’ offensive strategies, and when they are performing well, it can be challenging to shut them down. He also mentioned that their style of play appears and feels distinct.

In the second half, Mostert scored two rushing touchdowns, extending the lead to 21 points. He ended the game with 115 yards from 17 carries.

On the other side of the ball, Panthers quarterback Bryce Young continued to show improvement — especially when throwing to Adam Thielen.

The experienced wide receiver made 11 receptions for 115 yards and scored a touchdown – marking the third instance in the past four games where he has reached over 100 yards.

In the first quarter, his touchdown from 8 yards gave Carolina a 14-0 lead, undoubtedly grabbing the attention of many NFL fans checking the scoreboard.

Chuba Hubbard has performed admirably while Miles Sanders was absent due to a shoulder injury.

Hubbard rushed for a total of 88 yards on 19 attempts, scoring a 6-yard touchdown run that gave the Panthers an early lead in the game.

However, following its initial triumph, the Panthers’ offense returned to its usual performance and faced difficulties for the remainder of the game.

On the day, Young recorded 217 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. However, he also faced four sacks and was hit by the opposing quarterback nine times.

The offense had difficulty maintaining momentum, only converting 4 out of 13 third downs after the first quarter. They were also unsuccessful on all 3 fourth down attempts and missed a field goal.

The only noteworthy moment in the second half occurred when the Dolphins had already substituted their main players. Troy Hill made an interception on backup quarterback Mike White and returned it 61 yards for a touchdown.

The Panthers are currently the only team in the NFL without a victory as they head into their bye week.

If the Houston Texans defeat them in Week 8, it would match the worst start to a season for the franchise.

Young stated, “We are currently facing challenges and it is not easy. However, there is no other team or group that I would rather be a part of.”

“There are 11 games remaining,” stated Reich. “Anything is possible. If we dedicate ourselves to improving and staying united, we have the potential to make a significant impact and win numerous football games.”

Scoring summary

At 7 minutes and 13 seconds into the first quarter, Chuba Hubbard made a 6-yard rush resulting in a touchdown for the Panthers. Eddy Pineiro successfully made the extra point, bringing the score to 7-0 in favor of the Panthers.

At the 0:06 mark of the first quarter, Bryce Young threw a pass to Adam Thielen for an 8-yard gain. Eddy Pineiro successfully kicked the extra point, bringing the Panthers’ score to 14-0.

At 11:13 in the second quarter, Tua Tagovailoa passed to Raheem Mostert for a gain of 3 yards. Jason Sanders successfully made the extra point, bringing the score to 14-7 with the Panthers in the lead.

At 7:00 in the second quarter, Tua Tagovailoa threw a 4-yard pass to Jaylen Waddle, resulting in a touchdown. Jason Sanders successfully made the extra point, resulting in a tie score of 14-14.

At 1:54 in the 2nd quarter, Tua Tagovailoa made a 41-yard pass to Tyreek Hill, resulting in a touchdown for the Dolphins. Jason Sanders successfully made the extra point, bringing the score to 21-14 in favor of the Dolphins.

At 6:21 in the 3rd quarter, Raheem Mostert ran for 4 yards, resulting in a touchdown for the Dolphins. Jason Sanders successfully made the extra point, bringing the score to 28-14 in favor of the Dolphins.

At 12:23 in the 4th quarter, Raheem Mostert rushed for 1 yard and Jason Sanders successfully made the extra point. The score is now 35-14 in favor of the Dolphins.

At 4:26 in the 4th quarter, Troy Hill ran back an interception for 61 yards. Eddy Pineiro successfully kicked the extra point, making the score 35-21 with the Dolphins in the lead.

At 2:31 in the 4th quarter, Salvon Ahmed ran for 9 yards and Jason Sanders successfully kicked the extra point, bringing the score to 42-21 in favor of the Dolphins.

Source: wralsportsfan.com