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Zach Wilson, Sam Darnold insist New York Jets-Carolina Panthers opener not about outdueling each other

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Zach Wilson and Sam Darnold met for the first time last offseason at a training facility in San Clemente, California, Darnold's hometown. At the time, Darnold still was the New York Jets' quarterback.

Their next meeting will have greater meaning.

On Sunday, Wilson will face his predecessor, now the Carolina Panthers' starter, in a season opener thick with storylines. Both players insisted Wednesday they're not focused on outdoing the other.

"That's definitely not something I think about," Wilson said. "He's doing his own thing now.