Introduction
The Week 3 NFL clash between the Carolina Panthers and Las Vegas Raiders was one of the most talked-about games of the early 2024 season. Held on September 22, the matchup ended with a strong 36-22 win for the Panthers, who were seeking their first victory after two early losses. This game featured high-level performances, surprising plays, and significant individual statistics.
It was also a true test of depth as the Panthers relied on veteran quarterback Andy Dalton in the absence of Bryce Young. Both teams showed flashes of potential, but the Carolina Panthers vs Las Vegas Raiders match player stats reveal just how dominant Carolina was on both offense and defense. Let’s break down the key stats, standout performers, and moments that defined this exciting showdown.
1. Carolina Panthers vs Las Vegas Raiders Match Player Stats: Quarterback Battle
Andy Dalton delivered a masterclass for the Panthers. Starting in place of the injured Bryce Young, Dalton completed 26 of 37 passes for 319 yards and 3 touchdowns. He had zero interceptions, showing veteran poise and accuracy. For the Raiders, Gardner Minshew had a decent outing with 214 passing yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception. However, he couldn’t match Dalton’s rhythm or productivity.
2. Running Game Dominated by Chuba Hubbard
One of the biggest takeaways from the Carolina Panthers vs Las Vegas Raiders match player stats was Chuba Hubbard’s breakout game. Hubbard rushed for 114 yards on 21 carries and also added 55 receiving yards with a touchdown. His 169 total scrimmage yards were a career high and played a huge role in keeping the Panthers’ offense moving smoothly throughout the game.
3. Diontae Johnson Delivers a Career Performance
Wide receiver Diontae Johnson had his best game in a Panthers uniform. He caught 8 passes for 122 yards and scored a touchdown. This was his first 100+ yard game since 2022. Johnson was Dalton’s favorite target and came through in key third-down situations.
4. Carolina Panthers vs Las Vegas Raiders Match Player Stats: Raiders’ Top Receivers
Jakobi Meyers led the Raiders in receptions with 7 catches for 62 yards and a touchdown. He also converted a two-point attempt, adding to his solid fantasy football performance. Meanwhile, Tre Tucker surprised everyone with a breakout game, grabbing 7 receptions for 96 yards and his first NFL touchdown.
5. Alexander Mattison’s Consistent Touchdown Streak
Though the Raiders lost, Alexander Mattison continued his scoring trend. He added another touchdown to make it three straight games with a scrimmage score, joining elite company in Raiders history alongside Marshawn Lynch and Latavius Murray.
6. Defensive Standouts for the Carolina Panthers
The Panthers’ defense had one of their best performances of the season. They held the Raiders to just 55 rushing yards and forced multiple punts. Linebackers and secondary players swarmed to the ball, with Mike Jackson leading the team in solo tackles. Jayden Peevy recorded his first solo sack, adding pressure in key moments.
7. Raiders’ Defense Highlighted by Robert Spillane
Despite the loss, Robert Spillane was a bright spot for Las Vegas. He racked up 11 total tackles, including a sack and a tackle for loss. Spillane became just the second Raider in the last 20 years to post 10+ tackles in each of the first three games of the season.
8. Clean Football: Turnover Battle Won by Panthers
The Carolina Panthers vs Las Vegas Raiders match player stats also tell the story of clean football. The Panthers committed no turnovers, while the Raiders threw one interception. That mistake came at a critical point, helping Carolina build a bigger lead.
9. Carolina’s Offensive Balance and Efficiency
The Panthers totaled 437 offensive yards—306 passing and 131 rushing. They converted 5 of 12 third-down attempts and maintained long drives. This level of balance kept the Raiders’ defense guessing and helped dominate the time of possession.
10. Raiders’ Offensive Inconsistency
Although they totaled over 275 passing yards, the Raiders failed to maintain drives. They were just 3-of-11 on third downs and 1-of-3 on fourth down conversions. Minshew showed flashes of promise, but their lack of a run game made the offense one-dimensional.
11. Eddy Pineiro: Panthers’ Special-Teams Asset
Kicker Eddy Pineiro was perfect, hitting all three of his field goals from 43, 35, and 26 yards out. His consistency added valuable points and kept momentum on the Panthers’ side.
12. Time of Possession Dominance
Time control played a key role. Carolina held the ball for 36:02, while Las Vegas managed only 23:58. This difference allowed the Panthers to wear down the Raiders’ defense and kept Minshew on the sideline.
13. Red Zone Success and Touchdown Efficiency
Carolina was highly efficient in the red zone, converting opportunities into touchdowns instead of field goals. Their ability to finish drives contrasted sharply with the Raiders, who settled for fewer points despite good field position.
14. Coaching and Game Plan Execution
The Panthers’ coaching staff deserves credit. They designed a smart game plan around Dalton’s experience and Hubbard’s explosiveness. They also adapted well defensively, making second-half adjustments that slowed down the Raiders’ passing game.
Conclusion
The Carolina Panthers vs Las Vegas Raiders match player stats point to one conclusion: Carolina played better in all three phases of the game. Dalton’s leadership, Hubbard’s versatility, and a tough defense led to a well-deserved win. For the Raiders, the game showed they have offensive weapons, but need more balance and better execution. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build off this game, but for now, it’s the Panthers who leave Week 3 on a high note.