NFL News: Panthers’ Bryce Young Injury Update

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Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is sidelined with an ankle injury, making his participation against the Seattle Seahawks unlikely. If Young, the top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, doesn’t take the field, seasoned player Andy Dalton will assume the starting position. In his first two games with Carolina, Young’s performance has been less than stellar, recording a 59.2% completion rate with two touchdowns and two interceptions, resulting in a passer rating of 66.6.

At 35, Dalton, who joined the Panthers this offseason, previously took the helm for the New Orleans Saints, replacing Jameis Winston. Despite starting as a backup for Winston, Dalton marked a solid 2022 with 2,871 yards, 18 touchdowns, and nine interceptions.

The incident leading to Young’s injury took place in the first half of a game against the Saints. Despite the setback, Young played through, revealing his injury only post-game. Offensive coordinator Thomas Brown vouches for Young’s resilience both mentally and physically.

But how probable is Young’s appearance this week? Frank Reich, Panthers’ head coach, shows reservation towards starting a rookie quarterback without any practice, favoring a veteran in such scenarios. While Brown is inclined to trust Young, the final decision rests with Reich, especially given the truncated week post the Monday game against New Orleans. All indicators currently point to Dalton leading the team in Seattle. Dalton, emphasizing his commitment to the team, mentioned, “This is Bryce’s thing. I’m here to help the team.”

Facing Seattle, notorious as one of the NFL’s toughest venues, could it be advantageous for Young and the Panthers if Dalton started? Dalton, with his experience, may offer the Panthers an edge in the upcoming match. Moreover, a brief hiatus might afford Young, who lost only four games as Alabama’s starter over two seasons, the opportunity to recalibrate after his career’s rocky beginning. Neither Young nor Dalton will make Carolina upgrade their NFL Lines. 

Young’s First NFL Season So Far 

The initial part of Young’s NFL journey has been challenging. The Saints’ defense, particularly in Week 2, kept Young on his toes. Although he managed an 8-of-10 passing in the closing drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to Adam Thielen, Young’s nascent career has been marred by obstacles, especially compared to his fellow 2023 draftees. 

Being side-lined early in his career might revive concerns about Young’s sturdiness, given his 5-foot-10, 204-pound frame. However, his limited options in terms of a receiving corps, which hasn’t provided much separation, should be taken into account. As the season progresses, it will be crucial to monitor Young’s growth and how he adapts to the challenges of the National Football League.

Panthers in the eyes of BUSR NFL Odds

The Panthers started their season with a tight match against the Falcons, ending in a 24-10 loss after an initial 10-10 tie through three quarters. Young recorded 146 passing yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Miles Sanders led the rush with 72 yards from 18 carries, while Hayden Hurst stood out with five catches, 41 yards, and a touchdown.

In Monday Night’s game against the Saints, the Panthers rallied in the final quarter but came up short, losing 20-17. Young passed for 153 yards and a touchdown. Sanders led the rush again with 43 yards from 14 attempts, and Adam Thielen impressed with seven catches, 54 yards, and a touchdown. 

The Panthers have a spread of +6 (-110) and a moneyline of +206, while the Seahawks’ spread is -6 (-110) with a moneyline of -259. I wouldn’t bet on the Panthers, even with the more experienced Dalton the Seahawks look like they will cover the -6 spread at home easily this week.