Impact of Injury to Panthers Starting Quarterback and the Return of the Red Rifle
The Panthers are .500 for the first time in the Bryce Young era. After a rough start to the season, the Panthers rallied and are now a three win streak. Young has been good in the past three weeks. Helming the offense, Young has managed to score in of the games and is limiting his turn overs. Unfortunately, just as the Panthers are picking up steam, Young has been reported to have a high ankle sprain after a Week Seven victory. Head coach Dave Canales has yet to rule his starting quarterback out, but the same report has Young out for at least one game. High ankle sprains usually sideline player for two to four weeks, with starting tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders missing two weeks with the same injury. Young’s injury couldn’t come at a worst time as the Panther prepare for their biggest challenge yet.
With Young most likely out for Week Eight and possibly longer, veteran Andy Dalton will the lead the team. Dalton has been with the Panthers since 2023, and has served as a back up and mentor to Young. Dalton last started in 2024, after the Panthers briefly benched Young. The Red Rifle has been in the league for 15 years, with three Pro Bowls. Fortunately for Dalton the offense has been firing on all cylinders the past three weeks. The most significant improvement comes from the recent break out of Rico Dowdle. Dowdle has been instrumental to the Panthers, with back to back games with over 180 rushing yards, and over 200 scrimmage yards. In Week Eight, second year receiver Xavier Legette played the best game of his career. The receiving room is finally beginning to flourish, which should help Dalton.
Week Eight will be the most challenging game for the Panthers so far this season. Despite dropping their last two games, the Bills currently rank third in total offense. Offensively, the Bills are dangerous through the air and the ground. The Bills defense ranks middle of the pack, with every team they’ve played against scoring at least 10 points. The Bills excel against the pass, ranking second in the lowest amount of passing yards given up. Dalton will have his work cut out for him, as he hopes to keep the Panthers momentum moving forward.
