The Carolina Panthers’ dismal season hit a new low on Sunday as they had to digest a 17-10 loss to the Tennessee Titans. After the Week 12 loss, they are now sitting at the bottom spot of the NFC South with a 1-11 record, further claiming their status as the “worst team” in the 2023 NFL season.
The Panthers squad had been dealing with injuries, but even their healthy players had been struggling to shine brightly under Frank Reich. As the Las Vegas Raiders fired head coach Josh Mcdaniels, many speculated the same was waiting for Panthers HC Frank Reich as well, and it actually happened. Meanwhile, following the Reich era, speculation about quarterback Bryce Young has also been hot in the NFL community.
Next steps for Panthers QB Bryce Young with Frank Reich’s firing
Frank Reich’s arrival brought high hopes for the Panthers, lauded for his track record in offensive construction and quarterback development. However, ESPN reporters David Newton and Jeremy Fowler dissected the stagnation of both the team’s offense and the progression of Young.
Newton’s analysis revealed a grim picture of the signal-caller’s performance this season, consistently ranking near the bottom of the league in total QBR. Despite Reich’s assertions that the team possessed the necessary talent for success, the offensive unit built in collaboration with General Manager Scott Fitterer failed to deliver results. So, the ESPN reporter said there simply was “no reason to continue” on this path.
The breakdown of the former Panthers HC’s offensive strategy highlighted an emphasis on deploying four to five receivers, leaving the QB vulnerable behind an O-line that struggled to protect him, resulting in a staggering 40 sacks. Their analysis also pointed out the overwhelming pressure Young faced, coupled with a lack of potent receiving options. As a result, the analysts’ conclusion was damning: Young failed to benefit from Reich’s coaching.
However, Fowler and Newton proposed a solution to revitalize the Panthers’ offense, emphasizing the urgent need to acquire a vertical threat. They recommended pursuing veteran receiver Tee Higgins as a priority addition to complement Young’s skills effectively.
Why did the Panthers fire Frank Reich now?
As the NFL season heads into Week 12, the Panthers are the lone team ranking among the bottom five in both offensive and defensive performance. Despite the league-wide struggles faced by other teams, the Panthers have only secured a solitary victory.
In less than 24 hours after the disappointing loss against the Titans, team owner David Tepper wasted no time in making a decisive move, parting ways with head coach Frank Reich. Tepper’s frustration was visible, evident in his reported post-game locker room expletives.
Reich’s appointment in January carried high hopes of breaking the team’s losing streak, especially due to his offensive strategy, which brought a Super Bowl to the Philadelphia Eagles when he served as the offensive coordinator.
However, following the firing news, the veteran conveyed his positive sentiments towards Tepper, saying,I want to convey that I have nothing but positive thoughts about Mr. Tepper. On a personal level, I saw a side of him that I deeply respect and care about.”
Acknowledging the NFL’s merit-based nature, the HC emphasized that success hinges on meeting specific standards and expectations rather than being based on unconditional support. Meanwhile, the Panthers appointed Chris Tabor, the special teams coordinator, as the interim head coach, while offensive coordinator Thomas Brown steps in as the primary play caller.
What’s your take on the Panthers’ recent move? Tell us in the comments.
