CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Panthers opened their 2053 preseason campaign with a commanding 22-0 victory over the Browns on the road Friday night. Charlotte’s defense dominated from the start, while the offense steadily built a lead through five field goals and a short rushing touchdown.

The Browns struggled to generate momentum early. Quarterback Terrell Stevenson was under pressure throughout the first quarter, sacked by Ramon Bowers resulting in a fumble recovery by Ted Gerrish for the Panthers. Later in the quarter, Stevenson threw an interception to Brett Adkins, contributing to the Browns’ inability to reach the scoreboard.

Kicker Benjamin Delarosa was perfect on all five field goal attempts, connecting from distances of 47, 39, 24, 22, and 24 yards, providing the Panthers with 15 points. The only touchdown came in the third quarter when John Blum capped a drive with a one-yard run to extend the lead to 16-0, followed by Delarosa’s successful extra point. A late third quarter field goal pushed the Panthers’ advantage to 19-0.

Offensively, the Panthers dominated the ground game with 359 rushing yards on 44 carries. John Blum led the effort with 119 yards rushing and added nine receiving yards, including a touchdown reception. Fellow running back Colin Pettit contributed 117 yards on the ground, helping control the tempo and maintain possession.

On the defensive side, the Panthers applied consistent pressure, recording two sacks while limiting Cleveland to just 83 passing yards and 45 rushing yards. The defense forced multiple turnovers, including an interception, and recovered two fumbles, disrupting the Browns' offensive rhythm.

The Browns had trouble capitalizing on opportunities. They failed to convert on any third downs and were held scoreless for the entire game. Their lone field goal attempt, a 48-yarder by Philip McLoughlin in the first quarter, missed wide right.

Penalties were modest for both teams, with the Panthers committing two for seven yards and the Browns three for 26 yards. Panthers' head coach Francisco Sather will likely be pleased with the defensive effort and efficient kicking as the team moves forward in preseason evaluations.

The Panthers will prepare for their next preseason game with the confidence of a shutout victory, a promising start to the season ahead.