The Carolina Panthers were favored to beat the Philadelphia Eagles on the road. It was understandable, given the key men out for Nick Sirianni's squad, but all fans knew it put them in dangerous territory.
These are the kinds of games Carolina has struggled to win throughout head coach Dave Canales' tenure. But aside from a few anxious moments, they came through with a comfortable triumph.
The Panthers put in a professional display. They committed too many penalties, which Canales acknowledged were unacceptable. But overall, it was another pleasing performance that has Carolina sitting atop the NFC South at 3-2.
With the Tampa Bay Buccaneers next up at Bank of America Stadium, the Panthers have a chance to put some daylight between themselves and their division rivals. And though it wasn't perfect at Lincoln Financial Field, they got the job done.
That said, who were the Panthers' biggest winners and losers from Week 6? Let's get to it...
Winners and losers from the Carolina Panthers' impressive win over the Philadelphia Eagles
Winner No. 1
Taylor Moton - Carolina Panthers OT
After several months away from football to recover from blood clots, veteran right tackle Taylor Moton returned to the starting lineup for the first time this season. Despite the Eagles' ferocious defensive front, the 2017 second-round pick didn't skip a beat.
Moton was back to his ultra-consistent self. He was assured, comfortable, and technically sound. Simply put, he picked up precisely where he left off last season, stonewalling everyone in his path and giving quarterback Bryce Young the security he needed to do just enough.
This will have been a massive confidence boost for Moton. And even when first-round rookie Monroe Freeling is healthy, the Western Michigan product has an integral role to play.
Winner No. 2
Zakee Wheatley - Carolina Panthers S
The Panthers are gradually increasing Zakee Wheatley's role. It's a lot of faith to place in the rookie, but the standout defensive back is already showing the capabilities to become a potential long-term piece of the puzzle.
Wheatley has the size and athleticism to make a difference. He looks sound from a positional standpoint, and he is anticipating things extremely well in coverage. The former Penn State star recorded two pass breakups on the day, including a crucial one late in the contest that sealed it for the Panthers.
The first-year pro is stacking good displays now, which is encouraging. The Panthers saw something in Wheatley that others didn't, trading up to secure his services at No. 151 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. And even though it's early days, this looks like an epic steal.
He'll likely stay as a rotational presence throughout his first season. But if this trend continues, Wheatley will be starting full-time in 2027.
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