NFL match suspended in second quarter as fans told | NFL News

The Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars’ Week 1 conflict on Sunday was abruptly halted in the second quarter due to extreme climate at EverBank Stadium. This comes just days after a comparable climate delay during the Cowboys-Eagles match. Players had been ushered off the pitch and fans had been suggested to search shelter as lightning strikes had been detected close by.

At the time of the interruption, the Jaguars, having clarified rookie star Travis Hunter’s position before the sport, had been main 10–3 with 8:32 left in the first half. When play resumes, expectedly around 3.15pm ET, Jacksonville will preserve possession.

The Jaguars’ lead got here about through capitalising on a essential error by Carolina quarterback Bryce Young. During the Panthers’ second drive, Young’s move meant for receiver Xavier Legette was intercepted by linebacker Foyesade Oluokon at the Carolina 25-yard line, thanks to a deflection by Jacksonville’s Eric Murray.

Jacksonville quarterback Trevor Lawrence rapidly transformed the turnover into factors, connecting with tight end Hunter Long for a six-yard landing, extending the Jaguars’ lead to 10–3.

Before that, both sides had exchanged subject targets.

Jacksonville struck first, marching 55 yards across 13 performs to set up a 35-yard effort from Cam Little, securing an early 3–0 benefit.

The Panthers responded late in the opening quarter with their own measured drive, concluded by a 48-yard subject purpose from rookie Ryan Fitzgerald.

That levelled proceedings at 3–3 before Young’s interception shifted the momentum.

Lawrence accomplished 10 of 14 makes an attempt for 84 yards and one landing prior to the delay, displaying composure and precision while distributing the ball amongst varied receivers.

Brenton Strange topped Jacksonville’s receiving charts with three catches for 49 yards, including a 24-yard reception that sparked their initial drive.

Star rookie receiver Travis Hunter managed 4 receptions for 22 yards from 4 targets.

Prior to kick-off, a Jaguars insider confirmed that Hunter will operate as an “every-down wide receiver and situational cornerback” in his debut.

This twin position distinguishes him as one of the distinctive utility gamers in up to date NFL historical past.

During training camp, Jaguars coach Liam Coen cautiously expanded the playbook to utilise Hunter’s adaptability.

Whilst full-time two-way roles are nearly out of date in today’s NFL, the Jaguars imagine this hybrid strategy allows them to maximise both his playmaking talents and defensive instincts, all without exhausting him. Once the sport restarts, Jacksonville, led by Hunter’s dual-threat capability, will goal to lengthen their slim lead, while Carolina will endeavour to regular their younger quarterback and regain momentum.