Panthers vs Browns NFL Preseason Pick: Young and Starters Take On Rookie Sanders (Aug 8)

The NFL preseason kicks off for both teams on Friday, Aug 8, as the Carolina Panthers host the Cleveland Browns at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET. Both teams are looking to build momentum for the upcoming season, but with very different approaches to this preseason opener.

Carolina Panthers Outlook

The Panthers are looking for a fresh start with new head coach Dave Canales. They are taking a different approach to the preseason this year, with their starters, including quarterback Bryce Young, expected to play for at least a couple of series. The game will be a key opportunity for the offense to build chemistry with their first-round rookie wide receiver, Tetairoa McMillan.

Injury Update: There are no major injury updates for the key starters expected to play.

Cleveland Browns Outlook

The Browns will rest their veteran starters, including quarterback Joe Flacco and wide receiver Jerry Jeudy. Rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders is set to start, as veterans Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel are out with injuries. The game will be a crucial test for Sanders and other young players on the roster bubble, giving coaches a long look at their depth.

Injury Update: Kenny Pickett (hamstring) and Dillon Gabriel (hamstring) are both out. Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (ankle) and Greg Newsome II (shoulder) are also not expected to play.

Analysis and Pick

Preseason games are often unpredictable, but the Panthers’ strategy of playing their starters gives them a significant advantage. Bryce Young will be facing a Browns’ defense that is missing some key players. On the other side, rookie Shedeur Sanders will be making his first NFL start against a Panthers’ defense that will have their starters on the field for a few series. The Panthers have a clear talent advantage in the early parts of the game.