With running back Jonathan Stewart watching from the sideline like nearly every starter, the Panthers' second-year running back played like a starter – from the very start.
Artis-Payne returned the opening kickoff 22 yards and then refused to give the ball back, carrying it on each of the first five snaps for 28 yards. He finished the night with 77 rushing yards on 18 carries and added a pair of receptions for 18 yards.
"I don't think I showed anything people didn't already know, but in case you missed it, I can play," Artis-Payne said.