After the Carolina Panthers failed to score in last week’s first preseason game against the New York Jets, there was no rush to hit the Panic Button but there was a definite need for improvement in all phases of the game. Rookie quarterback Bryce Young played two series, leading a 15-play drive that culminated in a 37-yard field goal by Matthew Wright. It was the team’s first points of the preseason and brought them within four points after the New York Giants marched down the field at will in the game’s opening drive, led by Daniel Jones.
The Giants responded with a 33 yard touchdown from Tyrod Taylor to Jalin Hyatt to extend their lead to 14-3 with 8:13 left in the second quarter. Matt Corral entered the game at quarterback and the Panthers finished the half with two punts and a turnover on downs. New York added a 9-yard touchdown run by Eric Gray to go up 21-3 at the half.
Panthers offensive coordinator Thomas Brown assumed play calling duties after halftime and Carolina proceeded to score on all but their last possession. Wright added another field goal to bring the Panthers within 15 with 7:45 left in the third quarter. Running back Raheem Blackshear entered the game for the first time and quickly added a rushing touchdown trim the Giants lead to 9 after an unsuccessful 2-point conversion attempt. Jake Luton entered the game at quarterback and tossed a 20 yard touchdown pass to Gary Jennings to round out the scoring . After shutting the Giants out in the second half, the Panthers could get no closer, leaving the final score 21-19. Corral finished 9-of-13 for 71 yards and Luton finished 2-of-7 for 41 yards and a touchdown.
Carolina closes out their preseason next Friday when the Detroit Lions travel to Bank of America Stadium,
