HOUSTON — There's an eternal dichotomy that comes with preseason games. The desire to keep players healthy, starters fresh, and the game plan for the season hidden, combined with the competitiveness to play every second, drives those on the field.

That came into effect on Saturday, as the Panthers' starting offense was pulled after two drives that were not the best of showings.

"Obviously, you want it to go well early, get it done fast, and didn't get that done today," admitted quarterback Bryce Young after the 20-3 loss against the Texans in the second preseason game.

The Panthers first offensive possession ended in a de facto three-and-out—also known as a four-and-out that included an extra play due to a defensive flag. That first play (and the one that was negated by the defensive

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