Thus, Sanders got the start and plenty of run, playing into the second half in a game that began against a claw of Panthers defensive starters.

The Colorado product and son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders got off to a slow start with a three-and-out on the opening drive of what was one of the more anticipated preseason games in some time.

Thereafter, Sanders began to settle in. He showed some poise, made some nice, accurate throws and scrambled well — and clutch. For his critics, of which there are many, his arm strength did look a bit lacking at times and his tendency to hold onto the ball too long was present, but on those same plays, so too was a no-quit mentality.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski had him playing under center and out of shotgun with Sanders finding success on the run, standing up to a rush and performing well in different situations.

After airmailing a third-down attempt, Sanders and Cleveland got a big break on a Panthers muffed punt. Sanders, as he really did most of the night, seized the moment. Rolling to his left, Sanders pinpointed a 7-yard touchdown to Kaden Davis through and over double coverage on the first play of the second quarter.

Sanders connected with Davis for another score, this time on a 12-yard toss that was low and on the money with 1:58 to go in the opening half.

Sanders capped his night by leading a third TD drive in the third quarter.

With all eyes on him, the former Buffaloes standout performed well, even drawing praise from Cleveland product and future NBA Hall of Famer Lebron James.