In a thrilling NFL preseason opener, undrafted rookie quarterback Haynes King led the Carolina Panthers to a 33-30 comeback victory over the Arizona Cardinals in the Hall of Fame game on Thursday night. King, the former Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year, completed 21 of 34 passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 39 yards and scoring the winning touchdown. Panthers coach Dave Canales praised King's resilience and ability to keep plays alive, saying, 'The guys were resilient and finish is what we preach as a team.' The game saw an impressive debut from Arizona's Carson Beck, and a late touchdown pass from Kedon Slovis to Bryson Green, but King's determination ultimately secured the win for the Panthers.
King's notable plays included a four-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Tyus III and a 15-yard touchdown pass to Ja'seem Reed, as well as a crucial 26-yard run on third-and-14 to keep the final drive going. The game was played without starters, but King's performance was cheered on by teammate Bryce Young from the sideline. Coach Canales noted that King's ability to move the chains and make plays was a key factor in the team's victory, saying, 'These are things that he did throughout his career.' The game also saw a visit from Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett and All-Pro tight end Trey McBride to the Pro Football Hall of Fame Museum, where their jerseys were displayed for breaking records last season.