Panthers head coach Dave Canales has assigned offensive coordinator Brad Idzik to handle play calling this season. However, Canales is eager for quarterback Bryce Young to assume greater responsibility in directing the offense on the field. Developing Bryce Young’s play calling ability is a key focus as he gains experience in his role.
Encouraging Young’s Command of Offensive Adjustments
Canales emphasized that as Young grows more confident and knowledgeable about the Panthers’ offensive system, he will be able to recognize mismatches against opposing defenses and adjust plays at the line of scrimmage. This increased ownership will elevate Young’s impact during games.
“Just continue to pour into our system, our concepts, the ownership of it,”
Canales stated, via Kassidy Hill of Panthers.com.
“I love the strides we’ve taken in terms of the operation, how he gets us up there, makes great calls, fixes our protection problems, finding solutions in areas where we’ve talked about to take advantage of coverages, takes advantage of different fronts for run plays, and just wanting Bryce to continue to grow in the ownership of those things. Because there are more opportunities for Bryce to affect the game at the line of scrimmage, and I want to continue to build off of that.”
Highlighting a Key Moment from the Playoff Game
Canales pointed to a notable example from the Panthers’ recent playoff game to illustrate the kind of play calling he hopes to see more often from Young. During that game, Young identified a defensive coverage that led to a 52-yard pass completion to wide receiver Jalen Coker.
“He saw a particular coverage and got us to an explosive play to Jalen Coker down the field, and it was the study,”
Canales said.
“It was the understanding. It was getting out of the huddle in a timely fashion and being able to seize a moment. I want more moments like that for Bryce.”
Next Steps for Bryce Young and the Panthers’ Offense
As Bryce Young approaches his fourth season in the NFL, this increased command of play calling represents a crucial development for both him and the Panthers. Building confidence in making adjustments on the fly will allow Young to better exploit defenses and help drive the team’s offensive success throughout the season.
