After Carolina took an early lead with a touchdown pass from Bryce Young to Jalen Coker, the Browns responded by scoring 30 unanswered points. Sanders, a fifth-round pick, made an immediate impact, completing 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns, while adding 19 rushing yards on four attempts. He played through the first three quarters before being replaced by Tyler Huntley, who added a passing touchdown of his own.
Sanders’ performance stood out not just for the numbers, but for his poise under pressure. He connected with Kaden Davis for both of his touchdowns, including a tight-window throw to tie the game and another just before halftime to put Cleveland ahead. Sanders also delivered a 30-yard strike to Luke Floriea, whose one-handed catch set up another scoring drive. The Browns’ offense found rhythm after a muffed Panthers punt recovered by Nathaniel Watson, which set up their first touchdown.
Tyler Huntley finished the night with 51 passing yards and a touchdown, while Gage Larvadain contributed a four-yard rushing score on an end-around. Special teams played a key role, with Corey Bojorquez pinning the Panthers deep and Larvadain returning a punt 30 yards in the second half. Defensively, Cleveland applied consistent pressure: Alex Wright, Julian Okwara, and Adin Huntington each recorded sacks, and safety Nik Needham intercepted Andy Dalton to set up a crucial third-quarter touchdown.
For Carolina, Bryce Young started strong but the offense stalled after the opening quarter. The Panthers’ backup quarterbacks, including Dalton, were unable to generate sustained drives against the Browns’ defense. The game also saw tempers flare, with both teams exchanging words after a physical opening series.
The result adds intrigue to the Browns’ ongoing quarterback situation. With veterans like Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett sidelined, Sanders’ strong showing—especially under varied scenarios and pressure—may influence Cleveland’s depth chart as preseason continues. Head coach Kevin Stefanski, while noncommittal about the long-term implications, acknowledged Sanders will receive significant reps in the Browns’ next preseason matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Historically, the Panthers lead the all-time series against the Browns 4-3, but Cleveland’s latest win narrows the gap and provides optimism for a team searching for stability at quarterback. For Sanders, the debut was more than a personal milestone—it thrust him into the heart of the Browns’ roster conversation, setting the stage for a competitive preseason battle.
For comprehensive play-by-play and highlights, see Browns 30 vs 10 Panthers summary: stats, scores and highlights and revisit the all-time rivalry at Panthers vs. Browns Through The Years.