How does the loss this week prepare you for the next game?
This was a tough loss, no doubt about it. We felt like we were competitive throughout the game, and at several points, we had opportunities to take control. But at the end of the day, we didn’t make the plays we needed to when it mattered most. Credit to the Saints—they executed well down the stretch, but we walked away from this game knowing we had them on the ropes. It’s frustrating because we know what we’re capable of, and when you play a divisional opponent that tight, you want to come out with the win.
That being said, this game just reinforced what we already knew—this team can compete with anyone. The biggest takeaway for us is that we have to clean up the little things. When you’re in a game like this, every possession, every snap, every read matters. We saw some real positives, especially in how we handled their rushing attack for most of the game, but we also saw areas where we need to be sharper. The good news is, we’re not dwelling on it. We’ve got the Patriots next week, and all we can do is take what we learned from this loss, apply it in practice, and be ready to execute better. We’re 1-3 right now, but this season is far from over. We’re going to keep grinding, and if we play with the same energy we did against the Saints—just with a little more discipline and execution—we’ll start stacking wins.
Can you summarize what it was like playing against the Titans last week?
That game was an absolute battle from start to finish. It came down to the final seconds, with a last-second touchdown deciding it, and that’s exactly the kind of game that tests what your team is made of. We knew we had to keep fighting, and we did just that. The Titans were much tougher than their record or last season’s performance might suggest. They came in prepared, played physical, and made us earn every yard. That’s a team that’s going to make some noise as the season progresses, no question about it.
But for us, the biggest takeaway was how our rookie quarterback, LaNorris Sellers, handled the moment. It was his first real start, and he didn’t just manage the game—he took over the game. Nearly 500 passing yards, five touchdowns, and a poise under pressure that reminded me of another rookie quarterback we once had here in Carolina, Cam Newton. That’s high praise, but it’s well-earned. He showed that he’s got the talent, the confidence, and the ability to lead this team in big moments. If this game was any indication, the future is bright for him and for this offense. We still have plenty to clean up, but we saw a lot to build on, and we’re excited to keep improving.
How has Taylor Moton’s experience in the league helped the team so far?
Taylor Moton is the kind of veteran presence every team needs in the trenches. He’s been a rock for this offensive line for years, and his leadership goes far beyond just what he does on the field. He’s a captain, and for good reason—he sets the tone for our entire unit. Whether it’s keeping the younger guys focused, making adjustments at the line, or just bringing that level-headed mentality when things get chaotic, he’s someone we lean on.
Physically, he’s still playing at a high level, anchoring that right side of the line and making sure our quarterback stays upright. But what really makes him invaluable is his experience. He’s seen everything—every blitz package, every defensive scheme, every type of pass rusher you can throw at him. That kind of knowledge is huge, especially when you’re working with a rookie quarterback like we are. He’s been through the grind, he knows what it takes to win in this league, and he’s helping make sure this entire unit is ready every week. Having a guy like Taylor Moton in that locker room is something you don’t take for granted.
