Jaguars' dominant victory over Panthers in Week 1 largely attributed to the Panthers' mistakes
Carolina Panthers Offense Struggles in Week 1 Loss to Jacksonville Jaguars
The Carolina Panthers began their 2023 season with a disappointing 24-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, as their offense struggled to find rhythm and consistency.
Dave Canales, the Panthers' offensive coordinator, had emphasized the need for a system that simplifies progressions, incorporates run-pass options, and schemes open throws to instill rhythm and confidence. However, his game plan in Week 1 gave the Panthers little chance to compete against a rising AFC contender.
Bryce Young, the Panthers' quarterback, completed 18 of 35 passes for 154 yards, tossed two interceptions, and failed to engineer any scoring drives beyond a late field goal and one garbage-time touchdown. Young struggled with field vision and pocket awareness, locking onto his first read and forcing throws into tight coverage multiple times. Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle combined for only 69 yards on 19 carries.
The offensive line, one of the most criticized units from last year, again faltered in protection. The Panthers managed only 265 total yards, including 251 passing yards by Young and 24 rushing yards. No receiver outside of rookie Tetairoa McMillan offered a significant threat to Jacksonville's secondary.
The Panthers' defense, while not covered in glory, was placed in an impossible spot by an offense incapable of sustaining drives. The Jaguars' quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, completed 19 of 31 passes for 178 yards and one touchdown. Travis Etienne Jr. ran for 143 yards on 16 carries against the Panthers.
As the game progressed, the Panthers' defense wore down due to favorable field position for the Jaguars. The Jaguars' defense kept the lead throughout the game, making it difficult for the Panthers to mount a comeback. Young's lone interception came off a telegraphed slant that Jaguars cornerback Tyson Campbell read like a book.
The Panthers' front office invested in Canales with the hope that he could develop Young in a similar way to how he helped Baker Mayfield revive his career in Tampa Bay. However, Week 1's performance raises questions about the team's offensive strategy and the progress of Young's development.
The Panthers will look to bounce back in Week 2 as they face the Atlanta Falcons. Canales and the Panthers' offense will need to make significant improvements to compete in the highly competitive NFC South division.
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