The Carolina Panthers came close to stealing a road victory Sunday afternoon, but a late Cleveland touchdown sent Carolina home with a heartbreaking 21-18 loss to the Browns.
The Panthers struggled to find the end zone through the first three quarters but stayed within striking distance thanks to their defense and kicking game. The fourth quarter then turned into a back-and-forth battle featuring four lead changes.
Carolina finally found the end zone when Bryce Young connected with John Metchie III for an eight-yard touchdown, giving the Panthers an 18-13 advantage with just over four minutes remaining. Carolina failed on the ensuing two-point conversion, leaving the Browns within five points.
Cleveland quarterback Deshaun Watson responded by leading an eight-play, 55-yard drive. Watson connected with tight end Harold Fannin Jr. for the go-ahead touchdown, then found Denzel Boston for the two-point conversion to give Cleveland a 21-18 lead. Fannin finished with seven catches for 51 yards and two touchdowns.
Carolina still had one final opportunity, but Young’s late pass was tipped and intercepted by Ronnie Hickman, allowing Cleveland to run out the clock. The Browns’ defense pressured Young throughout the afternoon and recorded three sacks.
The loss dropped Carolina in a game it had within its grasp late in the fourth quarter. For the Panthers, it will be one that got away after battling back from a slow offensive start to take the lead, only to watch Cleveland answer when it mattered most.
