Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has handled his early NFL career with grace and determination. Now, he’s showing the league that he is still talented and why he was the No. 1 pick in the 2023 draft.
After feeling the high of a two-week winning streak, the Panthers faced Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs on Nov. 24. Before the ball was even snapped, spectators and NFL fans predicted that this was going to be a blowout game.
From “the Chiefs are going to win this easily” to “this game will be hard to watch,” many expected the Panthers to lay down and suffer defeat without fighting.
Quarterback Bryce Young and the Panthers fought till the end.
However, Young and the Panthers had no intention of giving up and put on a performance that almost ended in a win. The second-year quarterback, who was benched for a few weeks, showcased his high level of skill and arm talent.
Also, Carolina’s defense did an exceptional job of keeping the game wide open until the end. The Panthers are among a few teams that scored 20+ points against the Chiefs’ defense this season.
While the game was a loss, it was very much a win for Bryce Young and the Panthers. Only losing by three points, they shocked many viewers who had already counted them out.
The team’s growth is evident, especially in Young’s play and how he is stepping up for the team. On Sunday, he stepped up once again during their game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Young threw a dot to Adam Thielen, taking the lead with 30 seconds left in the fourth quarter.
“Bryce Young is HIM!!!!” and “Alabama Bryce is BACK!!” were posted across social media as Young’s touchdown pass to WR Adam Thielen gave the Panthers the lead.
Although the game eventually went into overtime, and the Buccaneers won with a field goal, Bryce shined. His development is one to continue to watch.
With 298 passing yards, one touchdown, and zero interceptions, the 23-year-old is improving significantly.
Young is the prime example of why rookie/ young quarterbacks should be allowed to learn and grow. Whether they’re deemed generational or not, they play the most crucial position on the team.
After college, it’s a lot to handle: leading a team, building chemistry, and learning the game of football at the NFL level. Unrealistic expectations are placed on these athletes, and they’re torn down when they don’t meet those expectations.
It’s unfair to Young and other quarterbacks and players just trying to find what works for them. And when they do, prepare for nothing but greatness.
Photo credit: Instagram/ @bryceyoung
