Although they were close, the Carolina Panthers did not do enough to pull off what would have been the NFL’s biggest upset of the year on Sunday. Quarterback Bryce Young, however, did enough to secure his job for next Sunday.
Young, in another eye-opening performance, passed for a season-high 263 yards in this afternoon’s 30-27 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. While it came in defeat, the valiant effort was easily one of the most impressive offerings of the 23-year-old’s pro career.
So, head coach Dave Canales was asked if Young should be his guy moving forward.
“I mean, yeah, I don’t have to make any statements. He’s makin’ it for himself,” Canales replied. “He’s continued to show us the progress we’re lookin’ for, bringing our skill players to life.”
After benching him two weeks into the campaign, Canales reinserted Young into the starting lineup in place of an injured Andy Dalton in Week 8. Since then, Canales has taken his decision under center week by week—refusing to commit to either quarterback following each game.
But now, Young has finally made that choice a quick one for Canales—who was asked if the former No. 1 overall pick will lead the Panthers against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 13.
“Absolutely,” he stated simply.
In his second go-round as the starter, Young has completed 61.0 percent of his throws for 784 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions. The Panthers are 2-2 in those contests.
