Panthers projected to win NFC South, Bryce Young slotted as the 'best QB' in the division'
As if internal expectations weren't enough. Recently, NFL Network analyst Marc Ross went as far as to claim the Carolina Panthers' rookie quarterback and No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young was the best quarterback in the division and that the Panthers were the team to beat in the NFC South. But now, the Panthers will have to […]
As if internal expectations weren't enough.
Recently, NFL Network analyst Marc Ross went as far as to claim the Carolina Panthers' rookie quarterback and No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young was the best quarterback in the division and that the Panthers were the team to beat in the NFC South.
But now, the Panthers will have to either live up to these bold proclamations, or year one in the Frank Reich and Young experiment could be seen as a lackluster beginning to an uncertain story.
“Well, No. 1, Bryce Young’s the best quarterback in the division right now,” Ross said on NFL Total Access. “I’m takin’ him. Sorry to Derek Carr and all them and [Desmond] Ridder, but I’m takin’ him.
“But also, the foundation that he has. This is a talented team. This isn’t your typical ‘No. 1 pick in the draft’ team that has no talent. They have talent all up and along the board. Young talent, veterans that we’ve talked to. And also, an unbelievable coaching staff led by Frank Reich. Really, an all-star cast in the coaching staff. So he’s got the foundation on field with the talent and an unbelievable coaching staff with the foundation off the field.”
It isn't completely crazy for the Panthers to win the NFC South. The defense, though it wasn't elite in 2022, had good moments. And it can be argued that with better quarterback play, the Panthers may have been in the NFL Playoffs.
Now, many of the main characters from last season's team are back, with the addition of a stable coach and a quarterback who, according to reports, has impressed nearly everyone in the building, it comes as no shock that some in the analyst world are saying the Panthers could win the division. To some degree, it is true.
The NFC South is as open as its ever been. With Tom Brady's vice grip on the division finally relented, this can be a group of teams that are separated by one win or one loss. Still, it is a lot to put on the shoulders of a rookie quarterback and a head coach who hasn't even operated as the team's leader for more than six months.
Can the Panthers win the NFC South? Yes.
Is it the most likely outcome? I wouldn't bet the house on it.
NFC South up for grabs: Panthers will try to claim the division as their own
There is a noticeable optimism with the Carolina Panthers.
Feature image via Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports.
