Buffalo Plus: Bills vs Panthers – What They're Saying in Carolina with Tim Donnelly

Date: October 23, 2025
Host(s): Buffalo Plus team – Mike Catalana, Jenna Cottrell, Dan Fetes
Guest: Tim Donnelly (99.9 The Fan, Raleigh)

Overview

This episode of Buffalo Plus features an in-depth preview of the Buffalo Bills’ upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers. The team brings in Tim Donnelly, host from 99.9 The Fan in Carolina, to break down Carolina’s identity, strengths, concerns, and the mood in Charlotte. Throughout the conversation, they compare the two franchises, discuss the coaching dynamics, quarterback situations, and analyze what it will take for each team to come out on top.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Panthers’ Identity & “DNA of Ground and Pound”

The Panthers have tried to modernize their offense—drafting wide receivers high, investing in a young coach, and a #1 overall quarterback.
Despite this, their best form always seems to revert to classic, run-heavy football:
- “The Panthers will always come down to if they don’t get 30 good offensive rushes a game and play good defense… that’s just what’s in their DNA.” – Tim Donnelly [00:00, 03:21]
- Tim likens their relentless return to the ground game to “romcom” fate: no matter how far they stray, they always end up together.

2. Recent Panthers Games & Businesslike Wins

The Panthers are on a mini-winning streak, but notably, their 30–0 win over Atlanta felt more about Atlanta’s collapse than Carolina’s prowess.
Against the Jets, and in other low-scoring wins, the formula is clear: limit turnovers, run the ball, play defense, and end the game quickly. [02:46–03:21]

3. Running Back Rotation: Rico Dowdle vs. Chuba Hubbard

Rico Dowdle has unexpectedly emerged as a bell cow, earning heavy usage reminiscent of old-school “1993 running back usage.”
- “He was Thurman Thomas out there.” – Tim Donnelly [05:39]
- Dowdle’s productivity is clear, but the coaching staff’s loyalty means Chuba Hubbard may still get more touches than expected.
Tim thinks Carolina’s best chance is to continue feeding Dowdle as much as possible, though durability is an open question. [05:39–06:49]

4. Quarterback Situation: Andy Dalton vs. Bryce Young

With Bryce Young injured, Andy Dalton is likely to start. Donnelly notes both are competent but neither is a difference-maker at this stage.
- “If we’re being real… it’s probably close to a net indifference, right? They’re both capable of picking up a fourth down. Neither are capable of throwing for, you know, 320 if you need to.” – Tim Donnelly [07:23]
Dalton’s decades of experience and “backup steadiness” is useful but doesn’t raise the offense’s ceiling.
Tim provides a former QB’s perspective, focusing on situational decision-making and game management.

5. Coaching and Sidelines

Tim highlights how head coach Dave Canales is still learning in-game management:
- “We have so many conversations about Bryce being new… Dave Canales is just as new.” [10:05]
In contrast, Sean McDermott and the Bills have immense stability and experience, which the Panthers lack.

6. Panthers Weapons: WRs, TEs, and the Passing Game

Receivers

Ted McMillan (T. Mac): Big, athletic, efficient route runner, top rookie performer, though with some “drops” issues.
- “He’s the real deal.” – Tim Donnelly [11:55–12:53]
Xavier Legette: Explosive, but raw and inconsistent, a boom-or-bust type with potential for a long career or early exit.
Supporting Cast: Jimmy Horn (fast, rookie), Jalen Coker (valuable when healthy).

Tight Ends

They spread the ball thin to TEs, with Jatavian Sanders (injured, more WR than TE), Tommy Tremble (blocker/catcher, coming back from injury), and Mitchell Evans (a big-body rookie). Production is limited mainly due to low overall pass volume. [13:49-14:53]

Dowdle in the Passing Game

Rico Dowdle is also involved as a receiver, notching big plays sometimes due to blown coverage, but nonetheless “playing very, very well.” [15:00–16:07]

7. Defense: Playmakers & Philosophy

J.C. Horn & Secondary

J.C. Horn (top-paid CB): Elite but under-recognized since Panthers rarely play with big leads; had 2 INTs last week when finally afforded that opportunity.
- “He’s legit, and there’s a reason why they paid him all that money.” – Tim Donnelly [16:16]
Horn doesn’t travel: Usually stays on one side rather than shadowing WR1s, by coaching design, sometimes causing frustration for fans. [17:53]

Defensive Front

Derrick Brown: Not just a “light bulb” guy—always been strong against the run. He’s now healthy after missing early games and is key to recent defensive improvement.
- “As a run-stuffer, he’s been great… The rise of the Panthers run defense… coincides with Derrick Brown looking like the Derrick Brown pre-injury.” [22:52–24:39]

8. Quarterback Development Theory & Buffalo Context

Discussing the “life cycle” of QBs: Young QBs get their top WR, blow up statistically, then stars (like Allen, Mahomes, Brady) are expected to elevate lesser receivers due to salary cap constraints.
- “Once you hit a certain point where you’re that good, they stop giving you number one wide receivers because it’s now on you to turn them into number one wide receivers. And obviously Josh Allen is at that point.” – Tim Donnelly [21:48–22:24]

9. Fan Base Mood in Carolina

Panthers fans are deeply divided:
- “There are, there’s a contingent that thinks this winning streak is, is fool’s gold… And then there’s the contingent that… [says] he’s the best and he’s a great guy and they’re set up for the future.” [26:56]
Longtime pain over missed draft picks and futile tanking has created skepticism; a vocal, hopeful faction is countered by those who refuse to believe yet.

10. Game Plan for a Panthers Upset

Shorten the game (“Pop Warner football”), run the ball, play smart defense, and limit QB responsibility. If forced to throw 30+ times, Panthers will struggle—especially against potent offenses like Buffalo’s. [25:08]

11. Atmosphere at Panthers Home Games

Panthers fan base is growing, houses loyal core fans, but doesn’t reach “Bills Mafia” volume or intensity.
- “I think if it’s… It does feel like there’s a big group that’s just waiting for, like, that one real season to jump all the way in.” [28:58]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Panthers’ DNA:
“They’ve just come like… the one bright spot they’ve had… is basically six wins under Steve Wilks… when he just said, like, forget the nonsense… we’re just going to run the ball, and now… it’s Rico Dowdle up the middle.” – Tim Donnelly [03:21]
On the QBs:
“If we’re being real… it’s probably close to a net indifference, right? They’re both capable… Neither [Dalton nor Young] are capable… of throwing for… 320 if you need to.” – Tim Donnelly [07:23]
On Josh Allen’s Development:
“For the Bills, the number one is Josh Allen, right? Whoever he’s throwing it to becomes your number one… He’s one of my favorite quarterbacks to watch.” – Tim Donnelly [20:44]
On Derrick Brown:
“He is a run stuffing prodigy… the rise of the Panthers run defense… coincides with Derrick Brown looking like the Derrick Brown pre-injury.” – Tim Donnelly [22:52–24:39]

Important Timestamps

[00:00] Tim’s opening thoughts on Panthers “DNA”
[01:46] Panthers’ recent games and building identity
[03:21] Why Carolina always comes back to the run
[05:39] Detailed breakdown: Rico Dowdle’s impact and RB split
[07:23] Dalton vs. Young: net neutral at QB
[10:05] Comparing coaching staffs, McDermott vs. Canales
[11:02] WRs: In-depth on McMillan and Legette
[13:49] Tight end roles and offensive distribution
[16:16] J.C. Horn’s value and coverage assignments
[22:52] The Derrick Brown effect on run defense
[25:08] The Panthers’ “path” to an upset
[26:56] State of the Panthers’ fan base
[28:58] Atmosphere at home games, Panthers vs. Bills fans

Summary Takeaway

The Panthers’ identity is fundamentally run-first, defense-oriented football, despite managerial attempts to modernize.
Their recent wins are built on that formula; Rico Dowdle is critical, though the coaching staff’s loyalty to Chuba Hubbard could affect output.
Neither QB inspires much confidence for heroics, so the Panthers will lean on managing the clock, limiting mistakes, and hoping the defense (anchored by J.C. Horn and Derrick Brown) can contain Buffalo.
The Carolina fan base remains split between skeptical and newly optimistic; true buy-in will require more than another mini-streak.
The Bills, by contrast, are “set” with championship experience on the field and sidelines, so it will take a major upset for Carolina to win.

Buffalo Plus: Bills vs Panthers – What They're Saying in Carolina with Tim Donnelly

Date: October 23, 2025
Host(s): Buffalo Plus team – Mike Catalana, Jenna Cottrell, Dan Fetes
Guest: Tim Donnelly (99.9 The Fan, Raleigh)

Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Panthers’ Identity & “DNA of Ground and Pound”

The Panthers have tried to modernize their offense—drafting wide receivers high, investing in a young coach, and a #1 overall quarterback.
Despite this, their best form always seems to revert to classic, run-heavy football:
- “The Panthers will always come down to if they don’t get 30 good offensive rushes a game and play good defense… that’s just what’s in their DNA.” – Tim Donnelly [00:00, 03:21]
- Tim likens their relentless return to the ground game to “romcom” fate: no matter how far they stray, they always end up together.

2. Recent Panthers Games & Businesslike Wins

The Panthers are on a mini-winning streak, but notably, their 30–0 win over Atlanta felt more about Atlanta’s collapse than Carolina’s prowess.
Against the Jets, and in other low-scoring wins, the formula is clear: limit turnovers, run the ball, play defense, and end the game quickly. [02:46–03:21]

3. Running Back Rotation: Rico Dowdle vs. Chuba Hubbard

Rico Dowdle has unexpectedly emerged as a bell cow, earning heavy usage reminiscent of old-school “1993 running back usage.”
- “He was Thurman Thomas out there.” – Tim Donnelly [05:39]
- Dowdle’s productivity is clear, but the coaching staff’s loyalty means Chuba Hubbard may still get more touches than expected.
Tim thinks Carolina’s best chance is to continue feeding Dowdle as much as possible, though durability is an open question. [05:39–06:49]

4. Quarterback Situation: Andy Dalton vs. Bryce Young

With Bryce Young injured, Andy Dalton is likely to start. Donnelly notes both are competent but neither is a difference-maker at this stage.
- “If we’re being real… it’s probably close to a net indifference, right? They’re both capable of picking up a fourth down. Neither are capable of throwing for, you know, 320 if you need to.” – Tim Donnelly [07:23]
Dalton’s decades of experience and “backup steadiness” is useful but doesn’t raise the offense’s ceiling.
Tim provides a former QB’s perspective, focusing on situational decision-making and game management.

5. Coaching and Sidelines

Tim highlights how head coach Dave Canales is still learning in-game management:
- “We have so many conversations about Bryce being new… Dave Canales is just as new.” [10:05]
In contrast, Sean McDermott and the Bills have immense stability and experience, which the Panthers lack.

6. Panthers Weapons: WRs, TEs, and the Passing Game

Receivers

Ted McMillan (T. Mac): Big, athletic, efficient route runner, top rookie performer, though with some “drops” issues.
- “He’s the real deal.” – Tim Donnelly [11:55–12:53]
Xavier Legette: Explosive, but raw and inconsistent, a boom-or-bust type with potential for a long career or early exit.
Supporting Cast: Jimmy Horn (fast, rookie), Jalen Coker (valuable when healthy).

Tight Ends

They spread the ball thin to TEs, with Jatavian Sanders (injured, more WR than TE), Tommy Tremble (blocker/catcher, coming back from injury), and Mitchell Evans (a big-body rookie). Production is limited mainly due to low overall pass volume. [13:49-14:53]

Dowdle in the Passing Game

Rico Dowdle is also involved as a receiver, notching big plays sometimes due to blown coverage, but nonetheless “playing very, very well.” [15:00–16:07]

7. Defense: Playmakers & Philosophy

J.C. Horn & Secondary

J.C. Horn (top-paid CB): Elite but under-recognized since Panthers rarely play with big leads; had 2 INTs last week when finally afforded that opportunity.
- “He’s legit, and there’s a reason why they paid him all that money.” – Tim Donnelly [16:16]
Horn doesn’t travel: Usually stays on one side rather than shadowing WR1s, by coaching design, sometimes causing frustration for fans. [17:53]

Defensive Front

Derrick Brown: Not just a “light bulb” guy—always been strong against the run. He’s now healthy after missing early games and is key to recent defensive improvement.
- “As a run-stuffer, he’s been great… The rise of the Panthers run defense… coincides with Derrick Brown looking like the Derrick Brown pre-injury.” [22:52–24:39]

8. Quarterback Development Theory & Buffalo Context

Discussing the “life cycle” of QBs: Young QBs get their top WR, blow up statistically, then stars (like Allen, Mahomes, Brady) are expected to elevate lesser receivers due to salary cap constraints.
- “Once you hit a certain point where you’re that good, they stop giving you number one wide receivers because it’s now on you to turn them into number one wide receivers. And obviously Josh Allen is at that point.” – Tim Donnelly [21:48–22:24]

9. Fan Base Mood in Carolina

Panthers fans are deeply divided:
- “There are, there’s a contingent that thinks this winning streak is, is fool’s gold… And then there’s the contingent that… [says] he’s the best and he’s a great guy and they’re set up for the future.” [26:56]
Longtime pain over missed draft picks and futile tanking has created skepticism; a vocal, hopeful faction is countered by those who refuse to believe yet.

10. Game Plan for a Panthers Upset

Shorten the game (“Pop Warner football”), run the ball, play smart defense, and limit QB responsibility. If forced to throw 30+ times, Panthers will struggle—especially against potent offenses like Buffalo’s. [25:08]

11. Atmosphere at Panthers Home Games

Panthers fan base is growing, houses loyal core fans, but doesn’t reach “Bills Mafia” volume or intensity.
- “I think if it’s… It does feel like there’s a big group that’s just waiting for, like, that one real season to jump all the way in.” [28:58]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Panthers’ DNA:
“They’ve just come like… the one bright spot they’ve had… is basically six wins under Steve Wilks… when he just said, like, forget the nonsense… we’re just going to run the ball, and now… it’s Rico Dowdle up the middle.” – Tim Donnelly [03:21]
On the QBs:
“If we’re being real… it’s probably close to a net indifference, right? They’re both capable… Neither [Dalton nor Young] are capable… of throwing for… 320 if you need to.” – Tim Donnelly [07:23]
On Josh Allen’s Development:
“For the Bills, the number one is Josh Allen, right? Whoever he’s throwing it to becomes your number one… He’s one of my favorite quarterbacks to watch.” – Tim Donnelly [20:44]
On Derrick Brown:
“He is a run stuffing prodigy… the rise of the Panthers run defense… coincides with Derrick Brown looking like the Derrick Brown pre-injury.” – Tim Donnelly [22:52–24:39]

Important Timestamps

[00:00] Tim’s opening thoughts on Panthers “DNA”
[01:46] Panthers’ recent games and building identity
[03:21] Why Carolina always comes back to the run
[05:39] Detailed breakdown: Rico Dowdle’s impact and RB split
[07:23] Dalton vs. Young: net neutral at QB
[10:05] Comparing coaching staffs, McDermott vs. Canales
[11:02] WRs: In-depth on McMillan and Legette
[13:49] Tight end roles and offensive distribution
[16:16] J.C. Horn’s value and coverage assignments
[22:52] The Derrick Brown effect on run defense
[25:08] The Panthers’ “path” to an upset
[26:56] State of the Panthers’ fan base
[28:58] Atmosphere at home games, Panthers vs. Bills fans

Summary Takeaway

The Panthers’ identity is fundamentally run-first, defense-oriented football, despite managerial attempts to modernize.
Their recent wins are built on that formula; Rico Dowdle is critical, though the coaching staff’s loyalty to Chuba Hubbard could affect output.
Neither QB inspires much confidence for heroics, so the Panthers will lean on managing the clock, limiting mistakes, and hoping the defense (anchored by J.C. Horn and Derrick Brown) can contain Buffalo.
The Carolina fan base remains split between skeptical and newly optimistic; true buy-in will require more than another mini-streak.
The Bills, by contrast, are “set” with championship experience on the field and sidelines, so it will take a major upset for Carolina to win.

Bills vs Panthers. What they're saying in Carolina with Tim Donnelly

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Summary

Buffalo Plus: Bills vs Panthers – What They're Saying in Carolina with Tim Donnelly

Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Panthers’ Identity & “DNA of Ground and Pound”

2. Recent Panthers Games & Businesslike Wins

3. Running Back Rotation: Rico Dowdle vs. Chuba Hubbard

4. Quarterback Situation: Andy Dalton vs. Bryce Young

5. Coaching and Sidelines

6. Panthers Weapons: WRs, TEs, and the Passing Game

Receivers

Tight Ends

Dowdle in the Passing Game

7. Defense: Playmakers & Philosophy

J.C. Horn & Secondary

Defensive Front

8. Quarterback Development Theory & Buffalo Context

9. Fan Base Mood in Carolina

10. Game Plan for a Panthers Upset

11. Atmosphere at Panthers Home Games

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Important Timestamps

Summary Takeaway

Summary

Buffalo Plus: Bills vs Panthers – What They're Saying in Carolina with Tim Donnelly

Overview

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Panthers’ Identity & “DNA of Ground and Pound”

2. Recent Panthers Games & Businesslike Wins

3. Running Back Rotation: Rico Dowdle vs. Chuba Hubbard

4. Quarterback Situation: Andy Dalton vs. Bryce Young

5. Coaching and Sidelines

6. Panthers Weapons: WRs, TEs, and the Passing Game

Receivers

Tight Ends

Dowdle in the Passing Game

7. Defense: Playmakers & Philosophy

J.C. Horn & Secondary

Defensive Front

8. Quarterback Development Theory & Buffalo Context

9. Fan Base Mood in Carolina

10. Game Plan for a Panthers Upset

11. Atmosphere at Panthers Home Games

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Important Timestamps

Summary Takeaway