Bills vs Panthers updates, highlights from first preseason game

ORCHARD PARK - The Buffalo Bills are opening the preseason schedule Saturday afternoon against the Carolina Panthers in what will be the first game played at Highmark Stadium.

Last week, the team and its fans were introduced to the new $2.2 billion stadium during the annual blue and red practice, but this is a far more monumental day because even though it's only the preseason, this is the first game and there will be lifelong memories made for many who attend.

It's also the first time we get to see Joe Brady as a head coach in the NFL, the first time Jim Leonhard will be calling plays as an NFL defensive coordinator, and the first time Buffalo's 2026 draft class and its newly acquired veterans will be on display.

The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle.

is bringing you live updates, scores and highlights from the game. Bookmark this page and visit it throughout the day for fresh updates before, during and after the game.

Watch Bills vs. Panthers on FUBO (Free trial)

Picture perfect day for Highmark debut

10:12 AM ET, August 15 2026, Sal Maiorana

The Bills have dealt with a lot of rain since they began training camp, including a downpour last Saturday when they went through their first trial run at the new stadium for the blue and red practice.

It does not appear that rain will be an issue Saturday during the preseason opener against the Panthers, the first actual game in the building. The forecast for Orchard Park is showing partly cloudy skies with a temperature maxing out around 80 degrees. Pretty perfect.

Fifty-three years ago when the Bills opened Rich Stadium with the inaugural game against the Washington Redskins, it was a night-time kickoff and at one point rain swept through the area, though it did not damper the excitement. Take it from someone who was there, it was still a great night, and I would expect the same excitement will be generated for this game, obstructed view seats aside.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Bills vs Panthers updates, highlights from first preseason game