Cardinals and Panthers to Kick Off NFL Preseason in Hall of Fame Game: How to Watch, Start Time, Stats, Odds

Asher Hyre Updated: Aug 05 2026 17:17

The Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers are set to begin the NFL preseason this Thursday at 8:00 PM ET in Canton, Ohio, for the annual Hall of Fame Game.

Held every year since 1962, the game celebrates the newest class of inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and officially marks the start of the league's preseason schedule.

This year's ceremony holds special significance for the Cardinals, as legendary wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is among the honorees. Fitzgerald, one of the most iconic players in franchise history, spent his entire 17-year career with the team.

The matchup will also mark the head coaching debut for Mike LaFleur with the Cardinals. LaFleur takes the helm after the team dismissed Jonathan Gannon following a 4-13 season in 2025. On the opposing sideline, the Panthers have announced that quarterback Bryce Young will be held out of the game as a precaution.

Head-to-Head Stats: Cardinals vs. Panthers

The Panthers hold a commanding 15-6 lead in the all-time series against the Cardinals. Carolina has won seven of the last eight meetings between the two teams. The Cardinals have a 1-3-1 record in their previous Hall of Fame Game appearances. The Panthers are undefeated in the Hall of Fame Game, with a 1-0 record.

How to Watch Cardinals vs. Panthers

The Hall of Fame Game between the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers is scheduled for this Thursday, August 8, at 8:00 PM ET. The game will be played at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.

It will be available to watch on NBC and Peacock with Mike Tirico on the play-by-play call and Cris Collinsworth as the analyst.