Carolina Panthers vs Cleveland Browns Preseason Recap: Early Momentum Fades in 30-10 Loss
There’s something about the first preseason game of the year that feels like the unofficial return of football season. The humidity still hangs in the Carolina air, fans are buzzing just to see helmets back on the field, and optimism runs high regardless of the scoreboard.
That was the vibe at Bank of America Stadium on August 8 as the Carolina Panthers kicked off their 2025 preseason against the Cleveland Browns. The energy was there. The crowd was ready. Not only to see the Panthers but many fans buzzed the arena to see Shedeur Sanders. For a moment early in the game, it looked like Carolina might give the home fans something to celebrate- besides 5th round draft pick but unanimous star Sanders.
But preseason football can be unpredictable, and after a promising start, the Panthers struggled to keep pace with a Browns offense led by rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Cleveland ultimately walked away with a 30-10 victory, capitalizing on turnovers and strong defensive pressure throughout the night.
First Quarter: Panthers Strike First
For a brief stretch, it looked like Carolina might set the tone for the evening.
Quarterback Bryce Young led an impressive opening drive that showcased crisp passing and quick decision-making. The drive ended with Young finding wide receiver Jalen Coker for a 5-yard touchdown, capping off a 73-yard march down the field and giving Carolina a 7-0 lead midway through the first quarter.
The Panthers offense looked comfortable early, moving the ball efficiently and keeping the Browns defense guessing.
Unfortunately, that early rhythm would soon fade.
Second Quarter: Browns Take Control
The momentum swung dramatically in the second quarter when Cleveland’s rookie quarterback Shedeur Sandersbegan finding his rhythm.
Sanders connected with wide receiver Kaden Davis for a 7-yard touchdown, tying the game and injecting life into the Browns sideline. Moments later, the pair connected again—this time on a 12-yard scoring strike—to give Cleveland a 14-7 halftime lead.
Sanders finished the night 14-of-23 passing for 138 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing poise and accuracy in his NFL debut.
Meanwhile, Carolina’s offense began to stall. The Panthers struggled to establish the run game, finishing with only 40 rushing yards on the night, making the offense one-dimensional and easier for Cleveland’s defense to contain.
Third Quarter: Cleveland Extends the Lead
As the second half began, the Browns continued to lean on their momentum.
A sustained Cleveland drive ended with running back Gage Larvadain punching in a 4-yard rushing touchdown, extending the Browns’ lead to 21-7.
Carolina attempted to respond but struggled to maintain drives against an aggressive Browns defense that applied consistent pressure and forced mistakes.
Defensive end Julian Okwara stood out for Cleveland, recording two sacks and disrupting the Panthers’ offensive rhythm throughout the night.
Fourth Quarter: Panthers Add Points but Too Late
The Browns continued to add insurance points in the final quarter.
A 23-yard field goal from Dustin Hopkins pushed Cleveland’s lead to 24-7 before quarterback Tyler Huntley connected with Cade McDonald for a 6-yard touchdown, extending the margin to 30-7.
The Panthers managed one final scoring drive late in the game, ending with a 32-yard field goal from kicker Ryan Fitzgerald, but the outcome had long since been decided.
Final Score: Browns 30, Panthers 10
By the Numbers
Carolina Panthers
Bryce Young: 1 passing TD
Jalen Coker: 5-yard touchdown reception
Total Yards: 251
Rushing Yards: 40
Cleveland Browns
Shedeur Sanders: 14/23, 138 yards, 2 TDs
Kaden Davis: 2 receiving TDs
Total Yards: 308
Time of Possession: 34:28
Final Thoughts: Preseason Is About Progress
While the final score doesn’t favor Carolina, preseason football is rarely about wins and losses.
The Panthers showed flashes early, particularly on their opening drive, and Bryce Young looked comfortable orchestrating the offense. However, the game also highlighted areas that will need improvement—particularly the run game and protecting the quarterback against pressure.
For a first preseason outing, the game served as a valuable evaluation tool for the coaching staff. With several weeks remaining before the regular season kicks off, there’s still plenty of time for adjustments, growth, and competition across the roster.
One thing is certain: the Panthers have work to do—but football is officially back in Carolina.
