Byrd is the word, as Carolina tops Houston 27-17

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WOLO) — Former Gamecock Damiere Byrd looked unstoppable Wednesday night in the Panthers’ 27-17 win over the Houston Texans.

The Carolina product caught four balls for 98 yards and 2 touchdowns, most certainly solidifying a starter role for Carolina.

Byrd shined on a night that featured a total of 10 former Gamecocks and Tigers, including Jadeveon Clowney, Johnathan Joseph, Deshaun Watson, Nuk Hopkins and Captain Munnerlyn (who did not play).

Texans rookie Deshaun Watson was phenomenal in his NFL preseason debut, going 15 of 25 for 179 yards and a rushing touchdown.

For Carolina, rookie Christian McCaffrey carried the ball seven times for 33 yards.

Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was held out Wednesday night with a sore shoulder.