The story of Bryce Young, the struggling quarterback of the Carolina Panthers, has taken a surprising turn in his second NFL season. After facing intense scrutiny and a rough start that left many fans doubting his future with the team, Young has shown resilience and determination to improve, sparking hope for the Panthers and their fans.
CHARLOTTE, N.C.
It’s been a bumpy ride for Young, who began the season with disappointing performances that saw him throw no touchdowns and rack up three interceptions, resulting in an abysmal Total QBR of just 8.9 over the first two games. Such a rocky start raised eyebrows and led to the decision by coach Dave Canales to bench him in favor of veteran Andy Dalton by Week 3.
From Bench to Rise
While sitting on the sidelines, Young didn’t let the situation throw him off course. Instead of giving up, he focused on improving his skills while supporting Dalton from the scout team. A source close to the team suggests that Coach Canales may have given up on Young too early after just two games, a sentiment echoed by many who have seen Young’s potential firsthand.
Injuries Bring Opportunity
Everything changed in Week 8 when Dalton suffered a thumb injury due to a car accident, unexpectedly leading to Young regaining his starting position. Since then, there has been a notable improvement in his performance with his Total QBR now sitting at a respectable 54.0. Young’s accuracy and confidence have surged, demonstrating that he has been working hard behind the scenes.
A Confident Comeback
Young’s recent games have been much more promising, punctuated by standout moments such as a dazzling 23-yard touchdown run against the Arizona Cardinals, where he showcased his ability to make plays under pressure. Teammates and team executives have voiced their renewed confidence in the young quarterback as he solidifies his place as a crucial player for the Panthers.
Team Support is Key
Many believe that Young’s resurgence is a sign of his development into a franchise quarterback. Former coach Ron Rivera has even gone on record saying that Young can indeed grow into the team’s long-term answer at quarterback. With support from his coaches and teammates, Young is looking to build on his success as the season progresses.
The No-Look Magic
In a display of his growing confidence, Young even channeled basketball superstar Steph Curry during Week 18. After completing a stylish 12-yard touchdown pass to tight end Tommy Tremble, Young celebrated with a no-look move that sent fans into a frenzy. This particular play was a testament to how far Young has come since his rocky start, showcasing his flair and ability to deliver when it matters most.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges faced earlier in the season, both Young and the Panthers seem to be regaining their footing as they head into the final stretch. With the support of his teammates and a newfound confidence, all eyes will be on Young as he wraps up the season with hopes of proving doubters wrong and solidifying his spot as the future quarterback of the Panthers.
Recent Stats Perspective
| Stat | Performance |
|---|---|
| Total QBR (Initial Games) | 8.9 |
| Total QBR (Post-Benching) | 54.0 |
| Touchdown-Interception Ratio (since Week 8) | 12:6 |
