South Charlotte Today

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — If you had any part in the 2023 Panthers offense, you still have the scars. For those involved in a successful first drive of a game on Saturday, being able to enjoy a moment of efficient football was pleasant but also part of a larger effort.

They understand that a 12-play, 85-yard touchdown drive in August against Bills non-starters doesn't hold much significance. However, after working quietly without much positive reinforcement for a year, it was an opportunity to relish the moment.

If they start this season as they did last year, that drive and its good feelings won't last long. If they can't sustain such performance regularly during the season, it won't matter, especially after finishing last in total offense and passing offense last year.

"Obviously, it's been a while since we've played an actual game, but this is what we've been doing all camp," running back Chuba Hubbard said. "But it felt good to do it in a game."

Hubbard has quickly become one of the consciences of the offense due to his dedication and respect among teammates. His acknowledgment of the progress made is significant.

He noted that Bryce Young's performance on Saturday reflected what he has observed throughout camp—commanding play, spreading the ball around, and making things happen with his feet when necessary.

"I wasn't surprised," Hubbard said. "He's been doing great all year and all camp; he's been balling."

An opening-drive touchdown is what teams work towards all week. Last year, however, the Panthers failed to score a touchdown on their opening series in any of their 17 games. This year's preseason drive was different.

Young acknowledged it as a building block but emphasized its limited impact: "It's something we can build off of," he said. "But it doesn't carry over into the next week or season."

Diontae Johnson praised Young's poise: "He's just so poised," Johnson said. "Because if it collapses, he doesn't let it rattle him."

For Johnson and others who didn't experience last year's struggles firsthand, Saturday's success represents potential progress rather than comparison to past failures.

"We put it on film that we can move the ball," Johnson said. "Even the backups did their job as well."

The team showed signs of cohesion beyond completing passes or scoring touchdowns. When Jonathan Mingo was slammed by a Bills defender, left tackle Ikem Ekwonu intervened promptly—a reaction reflecting unity and protection among teammates.

"If it was a joint practice or something, that probably would have been more of a thing," Mingo remarked with humor.

A year ago, such reactions might not have occurred amid ongoing struggles from early setbacks. The Panthers are aware expectations remain low for them entering this season but are determined to demonstrate improvement consistently.

"Everyone's going to probably write us off," Hubbard stated. "But each day we'll keep chopping the tree and show our best."

After enduring last year's challenges together—and hoping Saturday marked an initial step toward change—the team remains cautiously optimistic about what's ahead.