The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for a critical postseason showdown against the Los Angeles Rams on March 15, 2024. Quarterback Bryce Young, the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is set to make his playoff debut at Bank of America Stadium, a venue that last hosted a Panthers playoff game in 2015. Young’s consistent preparation and calm demeanor are expected to play a significant role as Carolina (8-9) seeks to advance in the playoffs, despite entering as 10.5-point underdogs, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales emphasized Young’s steadiness in practice leading up to the game. “Bryce is really consistent in terms of his prep, our normal conversations throughout the week,” Canales stated. “His demeanor stays pretty even, which is why he’s performed well in critical situations.” This steadiness has been evident throughout Young’s career, marked by both remarkable comebacks and moments of inconsistency.
Despite the Panthers losing their final two regular-season games, they secured a playoff spot through a tiebreaker. The Atlanta Falcons’ victory over the New Orleans Saints on the last day of the season allowed Carolina to clinch the NFC South crown. Young has demonstrated his ability to lead the team in high-pressure moments, having orchestrated 12 game-winning drives in his career, including six this season, tying him for most in the NFL.
Young’s notable performance in Week 13 against the Rams serves as a reference point for his capabilities. During that game, he completed 15 of 20 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns, achieving a passer rating of 147.1. As the Panthers prepare for their playoff matchup, all eyes will be on Young to see if he can replicate that success.
Young’s Journey and Resilience
Young’s journey to this moment has been characterized by resilience and growth. Since being drafted, he has faced challenges, including a rocky start to the current season, but has consistently demonstrated his ability to thrive under pressure. Running back Chuba Hubbard noted Young’s calmness in crucial moments, stating, “He’s always been cool in those moments since the day he got here.”
The quarterback’s history of leading late-game comebacks extends back to high school and college, where he made a name for himself with remarkable performances. Notably, he led Alabama to a thrilling comeback victory in the 2021 Iron Bowl against Auburn, showcasing his ability to handle high-pressure situations.
Despite his success in clutch moments, Young’s statistics for the season reveal a mixed performance. He finished the regular season ranked 22nd out of 28 qualified quarterbacks in QBR (47.7) and has often found himself in challenging situations, trailing in 32 of his 44 career starts. This inconsistency has raised questions about his ability to perform consistently at the professional level.
Yet, those who have coached and played alongside Young remain optimistic about his potential. Bill O’Brien, Young’s offensive coordinator at Alabama and now head coach at Boston College, praised his poise, stating, “He was amazing. One of his greatest traits is he’s very poised.”
The Road Ahead
As the Panthers look towards their playoff opener, the focus will be on establishing a balanced offensive strategy, similar to the approach that led to their earlier victory over the Rams. In that Week 13 game, running backs Rico Dowdle and Hubbard combined for 141 rushing yards, a crucial element the Panthers hope to replicate.
The importance of this playoff game extends beyond the immediate challenge. According to sources close to the situation, the Panthers plan to exercise Young’s fifth-year contract option this spring, contingent on his performance during the playoffs. While the team has not yet considered a potential contract extension, a strong showing could change that perspective.
Young himself is not looking too far ahead, focusing instead on the task at hand. “In this league, you’ve got to turn the page,” he remarked after a disappointing performance in Week 17. “Good and bad comes with sports. That’s the maturity you have to have at this level.”
With the playoff stage set, Young’s ability to navigate pressure will be tested once again. As the Panthers prepare to face the Rams, the outcome of this game could not only shape their immediate future but also define Young’s trajectory as a quarterback in the NFL. The anticipation surrounding his performance is palpable, as both fans and teammates believe he is ready to meet the challenge head-on.
