Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers won by the largest margin in a decade yesterday when they blew out the Atlanta Falcons 30-0 in the home opener. Chau Smith-Wade got an interception he returned for a touchdown in a dominant performance for the defense, but coach Dave Canales said just about everything clicked for his team in their first win of the season

This weekend, the Carolina Panthers return to regular-season NFL action with high hopes to improve their standing in the NFC South. The pressure is on for third-year quarterback Bryce Young and coach Dave Canales to deliver after a slight roster shake-up on offense and defense. The Panthers haven’t made it to the playoffs in seven years. Will this be the year?

A fatal stabbing has officials concerned not only about crime but also its potential impact this incident might have on the transit vote in November. The CMS school year is underway, North Carolina's legislature is back in Raleigh, but won’t vote on a budget, and the Panthers have traded a star.

Mecklenburg County commissioners vote on whether to increase the county-wide sales tax by 1 cent to fund the transit plan. North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein signs the mini budget, albeit reluctantly. Nancy Mace throws her hat in the ring for South Carolina governor. Plus, the Panthers open preseason play.

The Carolina Panthers continue mandatory minicamp Wednesday after some spirited on-field competition to open the sessions yesterday. Cornerback Jaycee Horn says he and quarterback Bryce Young have been trading friendly taunts to each other during the workouts.