Delhomme, balanced attack lead Panthers to first 1-0 start since 2003

CHARLOTTE (AP) — It had been four years since the Carolina Panthers's last victory in a season opener.

In that game, little-known Jake Delhomme had taken over at halftime for Rodney Peete and led a comeback win to kick off a magical Super Bowl run.

Now, the quarterback is more seasoned and criticized. But Delhomme was nearly flawless in the Panthers' 27-13 win over St. Louis.

And he helped the Panthers end a streak of three straight 0-1 starts.

Coach John Fox says Delhomme adjusted in the pocket and made some big throws.

Delhomme was 18-of-27 for 201 yards and three touchdowns. There were no damaging mistakes or interceptions that plagued him last season.