Carolina must bounce back in Week 2, leaning on Bryce Young to spark a more efficient offense. Tetairoa McMillan and Xavier Legette flashed some promise, but the supporting cast needs to elevate for any real shot against Arizona. Defensively, Derrick Brown and Trevin Wallace must anchor the run and tighten gaps, while Chuba Hubbard handles more of the ground game. A sharper play-calling approach from Canales and a cleaner game plan from the coaching staff are essential to stabilize the offense and minimize mistakes.

The challenge goes beyond box score stats: Young must raise the passing yardage and cut turnovers, while the league will watch how the Panthers balance air and ground to keep Arizona honest. If McMillan becomes a reliable target and Horn clamps down in coverage, Carolina’s path to relevance widens as the defense aims to limit the Cardinals’ efficiency.