Panthers Aim for Third Straight Win Against Struggling Jets
The Carolina Panthers are set to face the New York Jets on Sunday, aiming for their third consecutive victory after thrilling wins over the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys. Carolina, which has not recorded three straight wins since opening the 2021 season with a 3-0 record, comes into this matchup with a record of 3-3. The Panthers hope to secure their first road win of the 2025 season against a Jets team that remains the only winless franchise in the league, entering Week 7.
Panthers vs. Jets: A Brief History
The Panthers, in their 31st NFL season, began play in 1995 and experienced a challenging start, losing their first five games. Their first victory came in Week 6 against the Jets, thanks to a 36-yard interception return for a touchdown by linebacker Sam Mills, leading to a 26-15 win. Historically, Carolina leads the series with a 5-3 advantage and has triumphed in the last three encounters, including a narrow 19-14 victory at home in 2021. The last time the teams met in New York, the Panthers secured a 35-27 win in 2017.
Offensive Dynamics: Panthers’ Ground Game vs. Jets’ Struggles
Carolina’s running back Rico Dowdle has emerged as a standout player, currently ranking fifth in the league with 472 rushing yards. The Panthers’ ground game has proven effective, averaging more rushing yards per game than all but three teams—Atlanta Falcons, Buffalo Bills, and Washington Commanders. This week, Chuba Hubbard is expected to return after missing the last two games, adding depth to the running back position.
In stark contrast, the Jets enter Week 7 with the lowest passing yards per game in the league. Quarterback Justin Fields struggled significantly last Sunday during a game in London, completing only 45 yards before being sacked nine times, resulting in a total loss of 55 yards. This dismal performance left the Jets with minus-10 yards passing and no touchdowns, highlighting the team’s ongoing offensive difficulties.
Carolina’s defense, while allowing a considerable number of points and yards, has shown improvement in recent weeks. The Panthers limited the Dolphins and Cowboys to a combined 50 rushing yards over their last two games, showcasing their potential to stifle the Jets’ struggling offense.
Rookie outside linebacker Nic Scourton, who is expected to make his third start, may play a crucial role in pressuring Fields. With veteran Patrick Jones II out for the season, Scourton’s performance could significantly impact the outcome of the game.
The Jets will rely heavily on their running back Breece Hall, who has accumulated 560 yards from scrimmage this season but has yet to find the end zone. With wide receiver Garrett Wilson likely sidelined, Hall’s contributions will be vital for the Jets as they seek to end their winless streak against the Panthers.
As both teams prepare for this critical contest, the Panthers look to capitalize on their recent momentum while the Jets aim to recover from a challenging season thus far. The outcome of this matchup could have significant implications for both franchises as they navigate the remainder of the 2025 season.
