Panthers Start QB Dalton vs. Bills Amid Bryce Young Injury Uncertainty

The Carolina Panthers will start veteran Andy Dalton at quarterback against the Buffalo Bills in Week 8, regardless of Bryce Young's injury status, as Young is dealing with a high ankle sprain and is doubtful for the game. Young suffered the injury late in the third quarter of the Panthers' Week 7 victory over the New York Jets and has been progressing but did not practice fully leading up to the Bills game. Dalton, who has a 1-5 record in his previous starts for Carolina, expressed readiness to contribute, while Panthers coach Dave Canales emphasized taking Young's recovery day by day. The Panthers will also need to focus on slowing the Bills' strong rushing attack, led by running backs Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard, who have been effective at the line of scrimmage and in rushing yards. Bills coach Sean McDermott acknowledged the challenge posed by the Panthers' rushing duo, highlighting their versatility and impact on the game. The matchup between these teams will test Carolina's ability to manage both their quarterback situation and counter Buffalo's powerful run game.