We’re so back.
After an incredible back-and-forth game from the Cardinals and the Panthers, undrafted rookie quarterback Haynes King put on a show in the second half, leading Carolina to multiple scoring drives and the eventual game-winner as time expired.
While the score of this game ultimately doesn’t matter, it was an excellent showing for fans. This was definitely the most entertaining Hall of Fame Game that I can remember.
As I mentioned in our pre-game article, the main course of this meal was backups and rookies showing what they can do. King was the headliner of our names to watch, and he certainly did not disappoint.
However, there were more takeaways to focus on than just the stellar quarterback performance. Before we get into this week’s contest, let’s take a look at some of the key points from Carolina’s 1-0 start to the 2026 preseason.
Quarterback Controversy?
Let’s be real, as much as some fans enjoyed King’s performance on Thursday, there is no controversy over who the starter will be this season.
I’m not sure that there’s controversy over the primary backup position, either. The Panthers made a concerted effort to get a veteran backup this offseason, and I doubt King is automatically QB2 bound just because of one great half of football.
Where the “controversy” lies in the team’s decision-making going forward is whether or not to use one of the 53 main roster spots on Haynes King this season.
Carolina has only rostered two quarterbacks over the first seasons of the Morgan/Canales era. Dave Canales stressed during the offseason that he’d like to have a young, developmental backup, but the idea likely included King being on the practice squad to start the year.
After King's performance in Canton, however, that plan may not be possible.
Another wrinkle in this process is King injuring his hamstring on the final play of the game. If King’s sample is limited to only his HOF Game tape, which is pretty good, the team will have an even tougher decision.
Hopefully we get to see more of King, who was able to show off what he can do with his arm, throughout the rest of the preseason.
Other HOF Game Notes
The trench play on both sides of the ball was hit-or-miss. Carolina’s offensive line struggled early against the Cardinals’ veteran-laden front, but settled once King took over
Carolina’s defensive line was the bigger worry. Aside from an up-and-down performance against the run, the unit didn’t generate much pressure on the quarterbacks. The edge rusher rotation was particularly disappointing
Defensive back was another wishy-washy position in this game. Will Lee III made a big play early with a 3rd down PBU, but followed it up with falling to every double move the Cardinals threw at him. Fellow rookie Zakee Wheatley put on a show, fitting the run and displaying NFL-level range on the backend
By far the most impressive position group were the receivers. John Metchie III, Ja’Seem Reed, and Jimmy Horn Jr. all came alive at some point to make plays both as receivers, and in the return game. All three players showed that they will be worth keeping once cut day comes around
Starters Playing In Buffalo
Last week was fun, but Saturday against the Bills will be the first chance to see the starters in action. Dave Canales indicated that he wanted the starters to have about 10-20 plays, similar to what the group did during last year’s preseason games.
The range from ten to twenty plays seems to mean that Canales wants the team to put forth one good drive or a few drives where the offense can move the chains and the defense can make things difficult for Buffalo.
Fans will look forward to seeing a lot of the favorites get their time on Saturday, but one player has the chance to make a huge impression - not just for the fanbase but for the coaching staff.
This will be Jonathon Brooks’ first snaps since the 2024 season. When asked about the plan for Brooks on Saturday, Dave Canales sounding incredibly optimistic:
“Absolutely…He’s in great shape, he’s ready to rock, he’s ready to play football. And so now that’s just the next part of it, and, you know, he’ll play with the first group. He’ll mix in and out with Chuba and we’ll be able to get a good look at those guys…”
- Dave Canales when asked about Brooks’ availability against Buffalo
Despite the additions over the past few seasons, the Panthers offense still lacks explosive ability and juice. If Brooks is healthy and moves like he was a Texas a few seasons ago, he can be a source of explosive plays this team desperately needs.
Brad Idzik’s First Real Test
Last Thursday’s contest was the first time Brad Idzik called a complete game, and he did a pretty good job. While the offense was mainly vanilla concepts, he showed some wrinkles that highlighted the strengths of his players, especially giving Haynes King good opportunities.
Buffalo will be the first time Idzik gets the chance to call plays for Bryce Young and the starters since becoming the full time guy. With the 10-20 play range in mind, this will be a great opportunity for the Idzik/Young connection to grow over a few drives.
I don’t think any fan expects Idzik to empty the playbook this week for the starters, but the rhythm and cadence between play-caller and quarterback should be on display in this game.
The most ideal outcome would be no procedural penalties for the offense, as well as Idzik giving the group one or two chances to air it out. Having command of the offense while the starters are in the game is good enough for me.
Can We Get Some Pressure?
Perhaps the most disappointing result from the Hall of Fame Game was the lack of pressure on Arizona’s third (a rookie) and fourth string quarterbacks.
Despite winning the sack battle (two to Arizona’s one), the defensive front allowed time for multiple deep shots that were converted, and almost routinely were gashed in the run game.
Understandably, there weren’t many exotic looks, stunts, or blitzes from the second level, but the group still didn’t force the quarterbacks into making bad decisions.
This week, fans and the Panthers coaches alike will probably want to see more from the defensive front. If the Bills play their starters to counter Carolina’s, it’ll be the best possible litmus test for the defensive line trying to bring down Josh Allen.
Pass rush has long been an issue in Carolina, and if the team doesn’t find depth that stands out in the upcoming preseason contests, the team may need to look externally for answers.
Just like with last week’s game, the final score doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of this season. What does matter is how well the starters are able to come out of the gate, and how well the depth players continue to play within the Panthers system.
It would be nice if Carolina continued their winning streak, but ultimately, Idzik meshing with the starters is far more important.