CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Coach Dave Canales has not yet disclosed whether Bryce Young will continue as the starting quarterback for the Panthers, despite Young’s impressive performance that led to a last-minute touchdown and a 23-22 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.
On Monday, Canales indicated that he and his coaching staff are still in the process of “gathering information” to determine whether Young or veteran Andy Dalton should take the field against the New York Giants in Munich, Germany, during Week 10.
A decision on the starting quarterback is expected to be made later this week.
Canales praised Young’s performance following the game, highlighting how he stepped up in crucial moments and opened opportunities for the team. He expressed pride in the progress Young has made. However, Canales emphasized that many factors must be considered before reaching a final conclusion.
One significant aspect to consider is how benching Young for a second time this season could affect his confidence, particularly following what was his best performance to date. Young completed 16 of 26 passes for 171 yards, including one touchdown and one interception, which was a contested play that saw the ball ripped from his receiver’s grasp. After the game, he left feeling upbeat, enjoying dinner with his family while celebrating his third NFL victory against 17 losses.
Canales did not indicate whether Dalton, who served as the backup against the Saints, has fully healed from a right thumb injury sustained two weeks prior. “I don’t want to give any hints or insights,” Canales remarked, referring to strategies against the Giants.
Earlier in the season, Canales justified Young’s benching by asserting Dalton presented a better chance for victory. When asked if that rationale was still straightforward after Young’s solid performance, he noted that the team will assess all variables and evaluate film to make the best decision.
In terms of team performance, three rookie offensive players have been making significant contributions. Wide receivers Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker, along with tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders, have been standout performers. Sanders recorded a career-high 87 receiving yards on four catches against New Orleans, including a remarkable play where he soared over a defender. Legette added four receptions for 33 yards and his fourth touchdown of the season, while Coker contributed with two catches for 36 yards.
Canales commended the rookies for their maturity and how well they have navigated the challenges of constant improvement every week.
However, the Panthers’ run defense remains a significant concern, having allowed the Saints to accumulate 197 rushing yards and a touchdown on 41 carries. Had the Saints leaned more heavily on their running game, they might have emerged victorious. Following their seventh consecutive loss, the Saints parted ways with head coach Dennis Allen on Monday.
On a positive note, versatile offensive lineman Brady Christensen has proven his worth for the Panthers. Starting the season as a backup, he stepped up to fill a starting center role after Austin Corbett suffered a serious injury. Following a further injury to left tackle Ickey Ekwonu, Christensen shifted to the outside and delivered a commendable performance, limiting the Saints to just one sack.
In contrast, running back Miles Sanders struggled significantly. He was utilized primarily as a third-down back but failed to make an impact, recording minus-5 yards on both his carries and receptions. The lack of running lanes contributed to his poor performance. The anticipated return of second-round pick Jonathan Brooks may complicate Sanders’ role further, as he is seen as a potential trade candidate despite uncertainty about his market value.
Injury updates suggest the Panthers expect to welcome back wide receiver Adam Thielen, running back Jonathan Brooks, and linebacker D.J. Wonnum from injured reserve for their upcoming game.
A notable statistic for the team this season is that they have recorded just 10 sacks, which ties for the second-fewest in the league.
As the Panthers prepare for their upcoming game in Munich against the New York Giants, attention will also focus on Brian Burns, who was traded to the Giants during the offseason in exchange for draft picks.