In a thrilling Week 3 matchup, the Cleveland Browns outlasted the Carolina Panthers with a final score of 33-24. The game was crucial for both teams as they aimed to establish momentum early in the 2026 season, and the Browns managed to secure a vital victory on their home turf. Cam Newton was the standout performer for the Panthers, throwing for 283 yards and two touchdowns while also adding 51 rushing yards to his impressive stat line. Despite Newton's efforts, the Panthers struggled to find consistent offensive rhythm against a resilient Browns defense. On the other side, Josh Cribbs emerged as a key target for Cleveland, racking up 111 receiving yards and providing crucial plays that helped propel his team to victory. Defensively, the Browns were led by Scott Fujita, who recorded 11 total tackles, showcasing his ability to disrupt Carolina's offensive flow. The game’s turning point came late in the fourth quarter when the Browns intercepted a pass, allowing them to seal the game and maintain their lead. Despite Terrell McClain's strong performance for the Panthers with 1.5 sacks, it was the Browns' defensive tenacity that ultimately secured their win.