How to watch Panthers vs. Patriots preseason Week 1: Channel, kickoff time, and key storylines

The wait is finally over.

On Thursday night, the Carolina Panthers will take on the New England Patriots at New England in the first game of each team's preseason.

The Panthers and the Patriots find themselves in similar situations. Both teams have new head coaches. Both teams were some of the worst in the league a season ago. And both teams are looking to get off on the right foot moving forward.

How to watch Panthers vs. Patriots Preseason Week 1

Carolina takes on New England on Thursday, Aug. 8. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

The game will be nationally televised on NFL Network. However, the Panthers aren’t planning to risk second-year quarterback Bryce Young in the first preseason matchup. Still, additions like Diontae Johnson may contribute in a series or two to start the preseason.

For those looking to stream the game, it will be available on NFL Game Pass, NFL+, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV.

Know the foe

The Panthers are 4-4 all-time against the Patriots. Carolina is 2-2 at home and 2-1 on the road at New England.

The Patriots have four quarterbacks splitting reps: Jacoby Brissett and Drake Maye are competing for the starter role. Bailey Zappe and rookie Joe Milton are fighting for the third spot on the roster.

That will be a position to watch for Carolina’s defense.

Having all four passers suit up for New England will present a lot of different looks for defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, testing a secondary that features both returners and free-agent offseason signings.

Panthers injury news

Rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette is dealing with a foot injury. It is unclear whether he will play. Rookie running back Jonathon Brooks is still recovering from a torn ACL and will miss the game.

Young is being held out by a coach's decision .

To open the preseason, it should be a good one.