In a disappointing turn of events, the Carolina Panthers might have to face the Seattle Seahawks without their star quarterback, Bryce Young. The first overall pick of the 2023 draft missed his second consecutive practice due to an ankle injury, leaving his status for Sunday’s game uncertain[^1^]. As a result, veteran quarterback Andy Dalton took charge of the first-team snaps in preparation for the crucial match[^1^].
Speaking about his time in the spotlight, Dalton expressed his excitement to be back as a starting quarterback[^1^]. The transition from a backup to the starting lineup brings a sense of ownership and control that is often missed. Dalton emphasized how having the opportunity to shape and execute the game plan according to his own vision makes football enjoyable[^1^].
Young sustained the ankle injury during the Panthers’ 20-17 loss to the New Orleans Saints on Monday night[^1^]. Although Offensive Coordinator Thomas Brown indicated that the injury did not significantly affect Young’s performance, the team has yet to consider giving the rookie quarterback a break[^1^]. Unfortunately, the stats don’t favor Young either, as he currently ranks 27th in the league in ESPN’s Total QBR and 31st in passer rating[^1^]. With only two touchdown drives and three turnovers to his name, Young’s performance has left much to be desired[^1^].
Dalton was quick to defend Young, stating that the struggles of the Panthers’ offense cannot be attributed to a single factor[^1^]. He believes that a combination of missed assignments and execution errors have plagued their performance. The inconsistency has prevented the offense from finding its rhythm, leading to a lack of success[^1^].
Despite the concerns surrounding Young’s absence, Panthers fans can take solace in Andy Dalton’s history against the Seattle Seahawks. In his rookie season with the Cincinnati Bengals, Dalton led his team to a resounding 34-12 victory, completing 18 of 29 pass attempts for 168 yards and two touchdowns[^1^]. More recently, in 2019, Dalton’s impressive performance included 418 passing yards and two touchdowns during a narrow 21-20 loss to the Seahawks[^1^]. Center Bradley Bozeman praised Dalton’s leadership skills and expressed his confidence in any quarterback leading the team to success[^1^].
With a career record of 83-77-2 as a starter, Dalton brings a wealth of experience to the field[^1^]. His stints with the Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears, and New Orleans Saints have prepared him for the challenges that lie ahead[^1^]. Last season, Dalton guided the Saints to a 6-8 record, and during the offseason, he signed a two-year, $10 million deal with the Carolina Panthers[^1^]. His presence offers stability and a steady hand to a struggling offense.
As the Panthers find themselves ranked last in the NFL in scoring, Dalton aims to bring about a change by continuing to be his authentic self[^1^]. He plans to push his teammates, set the tempo, and do everything necessary to give the team a fighting chance[^1^]. Despite missed opportunities and costly turnovers, Dalton remains optimistic about turning things around and improving the team’s overall performance[^1^].
The absence of Bryce Young due to an ankle injury has put the Panthers’ offense in a precarious position. However, with Andy Dalton taking the helm, there is hope for a resurgence. Dalton’s history of success against the Seahawks, combined with his experience and leadership skills, gives the team a solid foundation to build upon. Time will tell if Dalton can steer the Panthers’ offense in the right direction and deliver the results that fans and the team desire.
[^1^]: Original article source: [ESPN](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34327527/ankle-injury-sideline-carolina-panthers-qb-bryce-young-vs-seattle-seahawks)
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