In a wild overtime thriller, the Carolina Panthers mounted a stunning comeback to defeat the Arizona Cardinals 36-30 at Bank of America Stadium on Sunday. The exhilarating victory was sealed by second-year running back Chuba Hubbard, who redeemed himself with a game-winning 21-yard touchdown run just four weeks after a costly fumble in OT against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
A Chip on His Shoulder
Hubbard, who had just designed a custom Panthers letterman jacket in time for the holidays, carried an extra burden into this matchup. His overtime fumble in Week 13 versus the Bucs prevented Carolina from attempting a game-winning field goal, ultimately resulting in a heartbreaking 26-23 loss. The young rusher was determined not to let history repeat itself.
I had an extra big chip on my shoulder from the previous overtime loss. I just told myself, if I get the opportunity, I need to end it.
Chuba Hubbard, Panthers RB
Establishing the Run
Despite building an early 20-3 lead, the Panthers found themselves tied 30-30 at the end of regulation after Arizona drilled a 58-yard field goal as time expired. However, head coach Dave Canales remained committed to his smash-mouth identity, feeding Hubbard early and often. The Oklahoma State product responded with a career day, racking up 152 rushing yards on 25 carries.
Carolina’s offensive line also deserves immense credit, paving the way for a season-high 243 yards on the ground despite missing starters to illness during the week. Their dominance in the trenches allowed the Panthers to control the clock and ultimately wear down the Cardinals defense.
Young Guns Shine
Rookie quarterback Bryce Young continued to show flashes of brilliance, scampering for a career-long 23-yard touchdown and tossing two more scores through the air. His poise under pressure and ability to make plays with both his arm and legs have provided a much-needed spark to the Panthers offense.
On the other side of the ball, second-year corner Jaycee Horn got the last laugh against a chirpy Cardinals offense. After jawing back and forth for most of the contest, the fiery defender helped slam the door on Arizona’s playoff hopes.
We were just yapping back and forth damn near half the game, but it was good to knock them out of the playoffs.
Jaycee Horn, Panthers CB
A Building Block
While the 4-11 Panthers won’t be playing postseason football, this gritty performance provides a glimpse into the team’s potential. With young cornerstones like Hubbard, Young, and Horn leading the charge, Carolina seems to be laying the foundation for future success. For Hubbard, he hopes his heroics and stylish jacket are signs of good things to come.
It’s gonna take time, but to send everyone home for Christmas with a victory is good.
Chuba Hubbard, Panthers RB
As the Panthers head into a Week 18 rematch with the Buccaneers, they’ll look to carry the momentum from this thrilling win. With Hubbard running hard and the team rallying around interim coach Dave Canales’ vision, Carolina is slowly but surely establishing an identity to build upon for 2025 and beyond.
