Tetairoa McMillan had a career day against the Detroit Lions, helping the Carolina Panthers defeat the Lions 32-26 in a Sunday night game in Carolina. The Lions dropped to 2-2 after their defense was outplayed by an offense that combined for nearly 900 yards.
McMillan, a first-round selection, tormented Detroit's secondary with 14 receptions for 192 yards and two touchdowns. The 6-foot-5 receiver secured a clutch catch on the sideline with under three minutes remaining, keeping the drive alive and sealing the victory for Carolina.
Bryce Young completed 29 of 41 passes for 329 yards and two scores, slicing through Detroit in Dave Canales' quick, play-action scheme. Chuba Hubbard added a ground threat, rushing 20 times for 122 yards and two touchdowns. The Panthers' core has clicked into place since their loss to the Rams last postseason, establishing them as the team to beat in the NFC South.
Jared Goff threw for 412 yards and a touchdown on 32-of-52 passing, but the Lions repeatedly stalled inside the red zone. They kicked four field goals before scoring a late touchdown to narrow the margin. Goff remained on the bench as the final whistle blew.
Dan Campbell's defense, known for physical dominance, got pushed around at Carolina's will. The game featured a 58-point track meet in which the Lions' squad failed to keep pace with an offense that out-executed them when it mattered most.