Jaguars beat Panthers 26-10 after weather delay in 2025 opener

The Jacksonville Jaguars overcame a lengthy weather delay and dominated the Carolina Panthers 26-10 in the 2025 NFL season opener at EverBank Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 7. The game was halted in the second quarter because of lightning in the area and resumed after a 1 hour and 16 minute delay, league and team reports said.

Jacksonville built a controling lead behind a balanced offense and a game-changing day from running back Travis Etienne, who finished with 143 yards on 16 carries, including a 71-yard touchdown burst after the rain stoppage that swung momentum firmly in the Jaguars favor. Etienne also had three receptions and earned high praise from coach Liam Coen. You could feel him all day, you could feel him having a little more burst than the other guys on the grass, Coen said. He looked fresh, he took care of the football. Proud of him.

Trevor Lawrence completed 14 of 19 passes for 128 yards and a touchdown, connecting on a six-yard scoring pass to tight end Hunter Long in the first half. Brian Thomas added a nine-yard rushing touchdown and kicker Cam Little converted field goals of 35 and 47 yards. Rookie two-way pick Travis Hunter, drafted No. 2 overall, was used...