Full Breakdown
Panthers Outpace Lions 32-26 on Young-McMillan Connection
By Drooid · · How we work
Game Summary
On Sunday night, October 5, 2026, the Carolina Panthers defeated the Detroit Lions 32-26 in Week 4 of the NFL season at Bank of America Stadium. Bryce Young completed 29 of 41 passes for 329 yards and two touchdowns, both to rookie tight end Tetairoa McMillan, who posted a career-high 192 receiving yards on 14 catches. The Panthers built a 32-19 lead in the fourth quarter before the Lions narrowed the margin to six points with a late touchdown pass from Jared Goff to Sam LaPorta. A defensive sack on Goff with just over two minutes left sealed the win as Young knelt twice to end the game.
Key Performances & Statistics
- Bryce Young – 29/41, 329 yards, 2 TDs, no interceptions; entered the week leading the league in passing yards (1,268 through four games).
- Tetairoa McMillan – 14 receptions, 192 yards, 2 TDs; joined Steve Smith Sr. and Patrick Jeffers as the only Panthers with at least 10 catches, 150 yards and two touchdowns in a single game.
- Chuba Hubbard – 20 carries for 122 yards and two rushing touchdowns.
- Panthers offense – 445 total yards (329 passing, 116 rushing).
- Lions offense – 452 total yards, 412 passing yards from Goff.
- Defensive notes – Detroit’s defense could not stop Young’s second-half drives; Carolina’s defense forced a sack on Goff in the final two-minute warning.
Official Statements & Responses
Tight end McMillan said the team’s execution felt effortless, noting that the plays called by offensive coordinator Brad Idzik and Young’s trust in the game plan led to the breakthrough. Lions head coach Dan Campbell expressed frustration, saying the Lions “got ourselves in a hole” and missed the chance to capitalize on late-game opportunities despite a solid defensive stop. Panthers head coach Dave Canales acknowledged the injury-laden week, noting the absence of top receivers Jalen Coker and Xavier Legette and the loss of several offensive linemen, yet praised the unit’s resilience.
What’s Next
The Panthers head into a bye week before traveling to Philadelphia later in the month. The Lions will travel to Arizona for their next matchup the following Sunday.