Mon Sep 09 15:04:21 UTC 2024: ## Panthers’ Young Struggles in Season Opener, Raising Concerns for Carolina

**Charlotte, NC** – The Carolina Panthers’ season got off to a disastrous start with a humiliating 47-10 loss to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Quarterback Bryce Young, the team’s highly-touted No. 1 overall draft pick in 2023, struggled mightily in his second year, leading to concerns about his future with the franchise.

Young finished the game with a dismal passer rating of 32.8, completing just 13 of 30 passes for 161 yards and throwing two interceptions. He also rushed for one touchdown. Despite a strong showing in training camp and preseason, Young appeared overwhelmed and out of his element against the Saints, according to Charlotte Observer columnist Scott Fowler.

“The Panthers will give it every chance, of course, because they’ve invested the No. 1 selection of the 2023 NFL Draft and so much else in Young,” Fowler wrote. “But wishing Young was the guy and him actually turning into the guy are two very different things.”

Head coach Dave Canales, in his first game with the Panthers, acknowledged the tough start but emphasized the team’s long-term vision, stressing the importance of adversity in building a successful team. “I knew that whether we started 4-0 or 0-4, whatever that is… This is going to take a long time to become us,” Canales said.

Despite Young’s struggles, Canales remained supportive, attributing his performance to the challenges of a new offensive system. The Panthers have a quick turnaround, facing the Los Angeles Chargers in their home opener this Sunday. While the pressure is on, the organization seems committed to their young quarterback, hoping that this early setback will be a learning experience on their “long journey” to becoming a competitive team.

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