South Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE — The Panthers (0-2) are set to face the Las Vegas Raiders (1-1) this weekend in a Week 3 matchup. The Panthers will enter the game with a new starting quarterback, while the Raiders come off a comeback win against the Baltimore Ravens. Historically, the Panthers hold a 3-4 record against the Raiders, with a 2-2 record at home and 1-2 on the road. Notably, Andy Dalton is undefeated in his career starts against the Raiders.

The Raiders' offense features quarterback Gardner Minshew, wide receiver Davante Adams, and rookie tight end Brock Bowers. Through two games, their rushing attack has been limited to 98 yards. However, Minshew has completed 55 of 71 passes for 533 yards and two touchdowns (with two interceptions). Adams and Bowers have accounted for 325 of those yards and received 35 of Minshew's targets.

Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce praised his team after their victory over the Ravens: "The quarterback did a heck of a job playing pitch and catch with one of the best receivers in the game and the young rookie really stood out today, Brock Bowers," he said. "I thought it was just a good job of our guys being resilient, having a hard hat mentality, keeping their composure, and being a more disciplined team."

Defensively, Maxx Crosby has been impactful for the Raiders despite early struggles. In their first two games, they allowed significant rushing yards but Crosby's performance has been notable. He recorded 11 tackles, three sacks, two quarterback hurries, five tackles for loss, and one pass defensed. His sack on Lamar Jackson during Baltimore's penultimate drive was crucial in securing their win.

"Last week, we heard a lot of noise," Crosby told The Athletic. "I took a lot of things personally. And I love that... I feel like I had a lot of doubters, and I feel like this whole team was being disrespected, so you've got to respond."

Kicker Daniel Carlson has also been reliable for the Raiders. He has made five out of six field goal attempts this season, including two from beyond 50 yards in their win against the Ravens.