<p>NFC South Showdown: Falcons Eye Dominance Over Winless Panthers in Week 3</p><p><br></p><p><strong>A fierce divisional rivalry reignites this Sunday as the Atlanta Falcons travel to Charlotte to take on a struggling Carolina Panthers team in a crucial Week 3 matchup. The Falcons, sitting at 1-1, will look to assert their authority in the NFC South against a 0-2 Panthers squad desperate to find its footing this season.</strong></p><p>The game is scheduled for a 1:00 PM EDT kickoff at Bank of America Stadium and will be a key early-season test for both franchises.</p><p>Atlanta enters the contest with a burgeoning defensive identity, having allowed an average of just 14.5 points per game through the first two weeks. Offensively, the Falcons are leaning on a potent rushing attack led by second-year standout Bijan Robinson, who has been a dual-threat out of the backfield. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has been efficient in managing the game, relying on the ground game and a short passing attack.</p><p>Conversely, the Carolina Panthers are still searching for answers after a pair of disappointing losses to open their 2025 campaign. The offense, helmed by second-year quarterback Bryce Young, has struggled to find consistency and put points on the board. A bright spot for the Panthers has been the emergence of rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who has quickly become one of Young&#39;s favorite targets. However, significant injuries along the offensive line could pose a major challenge against the Falcons&#39; formidable defensive front.</p><p>Key matchups to watch include the Falcons&#39; dominant rushing offense against a Panthers&#39; run defense that will be put to the test. The battle in the trenches will be critical, as will the ability of the Panthers&#39; depleted offensive line to protect Bryce Young from Atlanta&#39;s pass rush.</p><p>This &quot;I-85 Rivalry&quot; has a history of heated contests, and with the Panthers playing their home opener, they will be looking for a spark to turn their season around. For the Falcons, this is an opportunity to gain a valuable divisional win and build momentum as they head further into the season.</p>

Two Growls One Roar: A Carolina Panthers Podcast

Carolina Dad

NFC South Showdown: Falcons Eye Dominance Over Winless Panthers in Week 3

SEP 19, 202535 MIN
Two Growls One Roar: A Carolina Panthers Podcast

NFC South Showdown: Falcons Eye Dominance Over Winless Panthers in Week 3

SEP 19, 202535 MIN

Description

<p>NFC South Showdown: Falcons Eye Dominance Over Winless Panthers in Week 3</p><p><br></p><p><strong>A fierce divisional rivalry reignites this Sunday as the Atlanta Falcons travel to Charlotte to take on a struggling Carolina Panthers team in a crucial Week 3 matchup. The Falcons, sitting at 1-1, will look to assert their authority in the NFC South against a 0-2 Panthers squad desperate to find its footing this season.</strong></p><p>The game is scheduled for a 1:00 PM EDT kickoff at Bank of America Stadium and will be a key early-season test for both franchises.</p><p>Atlanta enters the contest with a burgeoning defensive identity, having allowed an average of just 14.5 points per game through the first two weeks. Offensively, the Falcons are leaning on a potent rushing attack led by second-year standout Bijan Robinson, who has been a dual-threat out of the backfield. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has been efficient in managing the game, relying on the ground game and a short passing attack.</p><p>Conversely, the Carolina Panthers are still searching for answers after a pair of disappointing losses to open their 2025 campaign. The offense, helmed by second-year quarterback Bryce Young, has struggled to find consistency and put points on the board. A bright spot for the Panthers has been the emergence of rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who has quickly become one of Young&#39;s favorite targets. However, significant injuries along the offensive line could pose a major challenge against the Falcons&#39; formidable defensive front.</p><p>Key matchups to watch include the Falcons&#39; dominant rushing offense against a Panthers&#39; run defense that will be put to the test. The battle in the trenches will be critical, as will the ability of the Panthers&#39; depleted offensive line to protect Bryce Young from Atlanta&#39;s pass rush.</p><p>This &quot;I-85 Rivalry&quot; has a history of heated contests, and with the Panthers playing their home opener, they will be looking for a spark to turn their season around. For the Falcons, this is an opportunity to gain a valuable divisional win and build momentum as they head further into the season.</p>