The Carolina Panthers rookie quarterback, Bryce Young, has shown promise throughout the preseason. However, there is still one aspect of his game that needs improvement – sliding. In this article, we will analyze Young’s performance, discuss the significance of sliding for a quarterback, and explore the key takeaways from his preseason games.
During the preseason finale against the Detroit Lions, Young’s lack of experience with sliding became apparent. After a 13-yard scramble on third down, he sat down awkwardly on the artificial turf, becoming subject to friendly ribbing from his teammates. Young admitted that he never slid during his college career at Alabama, which showcased his need for improvement in this area.
Sliding is a crucial skill for quarterbacks as it helps protect them from unnecessary hits and potential injuries. It is essential for a quarterback to know when to slide and do it effectively to avoid unnecessary contact and maintain possession of the ball. Without mastering this skill, Young may be vulnerable to injuries and hinder his ability to lead the team effectively.
Despite his struggles with sliding, Young showcased improvement in his overall performance throughout the preseason. In the final game against the Lions, he completed 7-of-12 passes for 73 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, Young demonstrated his mobility by scrambling three times for 21 yards. These numbers, combined with his previous preseason games, show that Young has the potential to excel as a quarterback.
Young attributes his improvement to the support and guidance he has received from his coaches and teammates. Their confidence in him has pushed him to perform better during practice and carry that momentum into the games. With the experience gained from the preseason, Young feels ready to take on the challenge of the regular season.
Carolina Panthers coach Frank Reich commended Young for his performance, particularly his ability to make plays with his feet. Reich highlighted Young’s touchdown pass to Adam Thielen as a prime example of his accuracy and playmaking ability. This endorsement from the coach further solidifies Young’s potential and the team’s belief in him.
Young’s statistics in the game against the Lions showcased improvement compared to his previous performances. His yards per attempt increased from 4.7 to 6.1, and his passer rating jumped from 70.1 to 103.8. These numbers are indicative of the progress he has made and the positive impact of better protection from his offensive line.
One significant change in Young’s approach against the Lions was his willingness to take off and run for yards when under pressure. Rather than solely focusing on extending the play for a pass, Young utilized his instincts and agility to gain valuable yards. This ability to use his legs adds another dimension to his game and enhances his playmaking potential.
While Young’s preseason performances have been impressive, it is crucial for him to refine his sliding technique. This aspect of his game has already garnered attention and jokes from his teammates, emphasizing the need for improvement. Young must dedicate time and effort to practice sliding effectively to mitigate the risk of unnecessary injuries.
Bryce Young’s preseason performance indicates his potential as a quarterback for the Carolina Panthers. Despite his struggles with sliding, he has shown improvement in various aspects of his game. By refining his sliding technique and continuing to develop his skills, Young has the opportunity to become a significant asset for the team. As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on Young and his performance as he takes on the challenge of leading the Panthers to victory.
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