The Cleveland Browns defeated the Carolina Panthers 21-18 on Sunday at Huntington Bank Field, using an 11-point fourth quarter to hold off Bryce Young and Carolina in a tight NFL Week 3 finish.

After a scoreless first quarter, Cleveland carried a 10-3 advantage into halftime before Carolina steadily fought back. The Panthers outscored the Browns 6-0 in the third quarter, trimming the margin and setting up a one-possession finish in Cleveland.

The fourth quarter delivered the decisive swing. Cleveland put up 11 points while Carolina answered with nine, leaving the Browns with just enough separation to finish the day on top. It was not an overtime game, but every late possession carried added pressure as the Panthers tried to turn a productive offensive afternoon into a road victory.

Young was the central figure for Carolina, completing 26 of 48 passes for 291 yards, one touchdown and one interception. The Panthers quarterback consistently pushed the ball downfield and gave his team opportunities to answer Cleveland’s scoring. Still, the lone interception and a difficult fourth-quarter margin left Carolina just short at the final whistle.

Carolina’s offense had balance from Chuba Hubbard, who carried 19 times for 82 yards. Hubbard’s work on the ground helped keep the Panthers on schedule and gave Young play-action opportunities, particularly as Carolina worked to erase the halftime deficit. The Panthers finished with 18 points despite being shut out in the opening quarter.

Brycen Tremayne supplied Carolina’s biggest receiving production, catching four passes for 83 yards. His ability to create chunk gains helped Young reach 291 passing yards, and it reflected the Panthers’ willingness to attack a Cleveland defense that had built an early lead.

Key Performers

  • Bryce Young, Panthers: 26/48, 291 YDS, 1 TD, 1 INT. Young generated nearly 300 yards through the air and kept Carolina within one possession late.
  • Chuba Hubbard, Panthers: 19 CAR, 82 YDS. Hubbard gave the Panthers a dependable rushing presence in a close road game.
  • Brycen Tremayne, Panthers: 4 REC, 83 YDS. Tremayne led all listed receivers in yardage and provided a major vertical element for Carolina.

NerdSports Stat: Cleveland’s 11 fourth-quarter points accounted for 52.4% of its 21 points, the difference in a game decided by three.

The supplied game summary did not include Cleveland’s individual passing, rushing or receiving leaders, but the Browns’ team result was clear: they made their strongest scoring push in the final quarter and protected a narrow lead to improve to 2-1. Carolina fell to 1-2 despite winning the second half 15-11.

For the Browns, the victory provides an early boost in the AFC North race before a quick turnaround against a familiar division opponent. The Panthers will look to convert their offensive yardage into a more complete result as they return home in Week 4.

Cleveland hosts the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday, October 1, while Carolina hosts the Detroit Lions on Sunday, October 4. Both teams enter those matchups with plenty to build on after a closely contested game in Cleveland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the Carolina Panthers vs Cleveland Browns game?

Cleveland Browns defeated Carolina Panthers 21-18 on September 27, 2026.

Who led the Cleveland Browns in passing?

Cleveland’s passing leader and quarterback statistics were not included in the supplied game data.

Did the game go to overtime?

No. The Browns held on for a 21-18 regulation victory.

What are both teams’ records after this game?

Cleveland Browns is now 2-1; Carolina Panthers is 1-2.

When is Cleveland Browns’ next game?

The Cleveland Browns host the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 5:15 PM PDT.