Jaguars host Carolina in Week 1 under a new GM and head coach, a matchup that signals more about direction than a single result. Bryce Young revived Carolina’s passing game last season with sharper reads and decisiveness, while the Panthers’ front seven looks reshaped to pressure and stop the run. Carolina’s ground game, keyed by Hubbard and Dowdle, should test Jacksonville’s defense, while the Jags count on Ja'Tavion Sanders and Pat Jones II to spark the pass rush and add playmaking from the edges. Jaguars 24, Panthers 21.