Offensive identity isn’t created in preseason, but Friday night was a step in the right direction for Panthers

It also meant responding to adversity after a preseason game last week in Buffalo in which the first-team offense played nine snaps but only had three drives, all three-and-outs, to show for it.

“That was a great improvement,” expressed Canales. “Really like seeing the run game go, and once that starts rolling, it just makes everything exactly how we want it on the offensive side, gives us options and some better D&Ds (downs and distances), but I was really proud of the group in terms of just playing clean ball; five penalties, pretty clean day.”

That offensive confidence bled through the entire game, even after the starters were done for the day. It exhibited itself in flashes amongst a slew of guys.

Guys like Jimmy Horn Jr., who finished with 85 all-purpose yards across receptions, rushing (a 39-yard end-around), and returns on special teams.

“Jimmy, every game, every single game, we show up and he looks fast,” bragged Canales. “He had the nice end around today, had a really nice catch down the field, and had a 30-yard (29 but who’s counting) kick return at one point too.

“So, Jimmy’s making a really strong case for himself in terms of helping our team, and I’m excited to see him, especially just continue to grow in our concepts where the guys trust him. They know he’s going to be available, and that’s what he’s been doing.”