The Carolina Panthers are riding a wave of momentum after their thrilling 20-17 overtime victory against the New York Giants in Munich, Germany. However, one question looms large: Will rookie quarterback Bryce Young continue as the team’s starter?
Young’s Promising Performance
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Bryce Young, showed flashes of brilliance in the Panthers’ win. While his stats were modest – 15 of 25 passing for 126 yards and a touchdown – Young displayed poise, decisiveness, and the ability to make plays when it mattered most.
One such moment came on a critical third-and-goal from the 5-yard line. Young, under pressure, slipped in the pocket but still managed to find rookie tight end Ja’Tavian Sanders in the back of the end zone for the score. It was a glimpse of the playmaking ability that made Young a star at Alabama and enticed the Panthers to trade up for him.
Coach Canales’ Noncommittal Stance
Despite Young’s promising outing, head coach Dave Canales refused to commit to the rookie as the team’s permanent starter. When asked if Young would start in Week 12 against the Kansas City Chiefs following the team’s bye, Canales was coy.
“Certainly, Bryce made a great statement for himself.”
– Panthers head coach Dave Canales on Bryce Young’s performance
The coach’s noncommittal stance raises questions about the team’s long-term plan at quarterback. Veteran Andy Dalton, who took over for an injured Young earlier in the season, has been medically cleared to play for several weeks. Dalton led the Panthers to two wins in Young’s absence and provides a steady, experienced hand under center.
Supporting Cast Steps Up
While the spotlight shines brightest on the quarterback position, the Panthers’ win over the Giants was a true team effort. Running back Chuba Hubbard, fresh off signing a four-year, $33 million contract extension, gashed the Giants for a career-high 153 rushing yards. The offensive line, rebuilt in the offseason to protect Young, allowed just one sack and paved the way for 188 yards on the ground.
On defense, the Panthers forced three turnovers, including a fumble on the opening play of overtime that set up Eddy Pineiro’s game-winning 36-yard field goal. Outside linebacker A’Shawn Robinson, making his season debut after recovering from surgery, registered a key sack as the pass rush harassed Giants quarterback Daniel Jones all game long.
“It’s building. It’s being a brotherhood, from offense to special teams to defense. This whole team is a brotherhood.”
– Panthers defensive end A’Shawn Robinson on the team’s growing chemistry
Looking Ahead
The Panthers, now 3-7 on the season, face a daunting schedule after their bye week. Matchups with the Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Philadelphia Eagles will severely test a young team still finding its identity. How Canales handles the quarterback situation could determine not only the Panthers’ fate this season but also the franchise’s direction for years to come.
For Young, the opportunity to start and lead the Panthers to wins, even against lesser opponents, is invaluable. Every rep, every game is a chance to grow, develop chemistry with his teammates, and prove he can be the face of the franchise. Whether he continues as the starter or cedes the job back to Dalton, Young remains focused on self-improvement.
“Stuff to clean up, stuff to build off of, but we’ll worry about that when it’s time to focus. Even if there is a week in between, we have to build off of it.”
– Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young
As the Panthers enter their bye week, fans and pundits alike will debate the merits of starting Young or turning back to Dalton. Regardless of who is under center come Week 12, one thing is certain: The Carolina Panthers are building something special, and the future looks bright in Charlotte.
