NFL match suspended in second quarter as fans told to evacuate with players taken off

The Carolina Panthers and Jacksonville Jaguars' Week 1 clash on Sunday was abruptly halted in the second quarter due to severe weather at EverBank Stadium. This comes just days after a similar weather delay during the Cowboys-Eagles match. Players were ushered off the pitch and fans were advised to seek shelter as lightning strikes were detected nearby.

At the time of the interruption, the Jaguars, having clarified rookie star Travis Hunter's role before the game, were leading 10-3 with 8:32 left in the first half. When play resumes, expectedly around 3.15pm ET, Jacksonville will maintain possession.

The Jaguars' lead came about through capitalising on a crucial error by Carolina quarterback Bryce Young. During the Panthers' second drive, Young's pass intended for receiver Xavier Legette was intercepted by linebacker Foyesade Oluokon at the Carolina 25-yard line, thanks to a deflection by Jacksonville's Eric Murray.

Jacksonville quarterback Trevor Lawrence quickly converted the turnover into points, connecting with tight end Hunter Long for a six-yard touchdown, extending the Jaguars' lead to 10-3.

Before that, both sides had exchanged field goals.

Jacksonville struck first, marching 55 yards across 13 plays to establish a 35-yard effort from Cam Little, securing an early 3-0 advantage.

The Panthers responded late in the opening quarter with their own measured drive, concluded by a 48-yard field goal from rookie Ryan Fitzgerald.

That levelled proceedings at 3-3 before Young's interception shifted the momentum.

Lawrence completed 10 of 14 attempts for 84 yards and one touchdown prior to the delay, displaying composure and precision whilst distributing the ball amongst various receivers.

Brenton Strange topped Jacksonville's receiving charts with three catches for 49 yards, including a 24-yard reception that sparked their initial drive.

Star rookie receiver Travis Hunter managed four receptions for 22 yards from four targets.

Prior to kick-off, a Jaguars insider confirmed that Hunter will operate as an "every-down wide receiver and situational cornerback" in his debut.

This dual role distinguishes him as one of the exceptional utility players in contemporary NFL history.

During training camp, Jaguars coach Liam Coen cautiously expanded the playbook to utilise Hunter's adaptability.

Whilst full-time two-way roles are virtually obsolete in today's NFL, the Jaguars believe this hybrid strategy enables them to maximise both his playmaking abilities and defensive instincts, all without exhausting him. Once the game restarts, Jacksonville, led by Hunter's dual-threat ability, will aim to extend their slim lead, while Carolina will endeavour to steady their young quarterback and regain momentum.