The Carolina Panthers have enjoyed tremendous success against the Atlanta Falcons in recent years. Head coach Dave Canales' squad continued that trend with a dominant Week 2 display to get their campaign off to a strong start.
This was a complete annihilation from start to finish. The Panthers dictated the pace in all phases, and Atlanta's fan base booed throughout. There were very few flaws, which shows what this team can do when everyone is firing on all cylinders.
Canales said after the contest that there are still some things to clean up, but he was no doubt thrilled with his players' response, especially on defense. With the Cleveland Browns next up, another performance like this would likely put them at 2-1 after three games.
That's for the future. For now, here are six winners and two losers from Carolina's convincing triumph in Atlanta.
Winners and losers from the Carolina Panthers' dominant success over the Atlanta Falcons
Winner No. 1
Devin Lloyd - Carolina Panthers LB
The Panthers believed Devin Lloyd could be the missing piece of their defensive puzzle. After an indifferent Week 1 debut, the second-team All-Pro turned in an all-time performance against the Falcons.
Lloyd was sensational. He was a difference-maker in every phase, and the Panthers haven't had this kind of dominance at the second level since Pro Football Hall of Famer Luke Kuechly was on the field.
With nine tackles, one sack, two tackles for loss, three pass breakups, and two interceptions — one of which he brought to the house for a pick-six — Lloyd showcased just what a special player he is. And if this is the start of things to come, the money Carolina secured him for in free agency is going to look like chump change.
Winner No. 2
Tetairoa McMillan - Carolina Panthers WR
Carolina's offense was humming once again. This unit looks much improved with Brad Idzik calling plays, and everyone is making a real difference. After taking time to get going in Week 1, wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan hit the ground running in this one.
McMillan is a superstar. He's a fluid mover who looks a lot stronger this season. Some of his catches were extraordinary, and the 2025 first-round pick's connection with quarterback Bryce Young continues to flourish.
The Falcons had no answer for McMillan. And when A.J. Terrell left the game early due to injury, that opened up even more space for the wideout to inflict significant harm on their NFC South rivals.
With five catches for 101 receiving yards, McMillan did his part. And the best is yet to come.
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