Which 0-2 Teams Can Make the Playoffs? Plus, Bryce Young’s Panthers Career is Over.
Sep 18, 2024
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Sheil Kapadia, a sports analyst, joins Steven Ruiz, an NFL performance expert, and Nora Princiotti, a seasoned sports journalist. They discuss the Carolina Panthers' decision to bench Bryce Young, signaling a likely end to his time in Carolina. The conversation also explores playoff possibilities for 0-2 teams like the Bengals and Titans, while scrutinizing Derek Carr's sustainability in New Orleans and the high expectations placed on Caleb Williams in Chicago. It's a lively debate on the league's most pressing issues!
Bryce Young's benching signals a need for a systematic overhaul in the Panthers' offensive approach and support system.
Derek Carr has demonstrated surprising success with the Saints, though concerns linger about the sustainability of his improved performance.
Caleb Williams' development with the Bears is hindered by poor offensive line play and ineffective coaching strategies that must be addressed.
Deep dives
The Challenges of Bryce Young
The struggles of Bryce Young as the starting quarterback for the Panthers have become evident, leading to his benching after just two weeks. Despite being the number one overall pick, Young's performance has raised concerns, primarily due to his lack of physical attributes that generally contribute to a quarterback's success in the NFL. His accuracy has faltered, and he has struggled under pressure, showcasing problems in decision-making and execution. The decision to bench him reflects a necessary shift, as the team aims to avoid further damaging his development in a situation that has not allowed him to flourish.
Factors Behind Young's Underperformance
Various elements contribute to Bryce Young's disappointing performance, including questionable coaching decisions and an unstable offensive line. The team has invested resources in improving the supporting cast, yet the results have not materialized, leaving Young without the necessary foundation to succeed. Additionally, head coach Frank Reich's ability to create a functional offensive scheme for Young comes into question as the team failed to build an effective game plan. The combination of these factors emphasizes the need for a systematic overhaul to protect Young's future as a quarterback.
Derek Carr's Resurgence in New Orleans
Derek Carr's early success with the New Orleans Saints has surprised many, showcasing an improved offensive dynamic under the guidance of head coach Clint Kubiak. With an emphasis on play-action and good protection, Carr has been able to deliver key passes effectively, though questions remain regarding the sustainability of this success. The Saints' offense has benefitted from favorable game situations, but Carr's past struggles under pressure still raise concerns about his ability to consistently perform when faced with adversity. If Carr can maintain his current form in high-pressure situations, he could help the Saints contend for a playoff berth.
Caleb Williams' Current State
Caleb Williams' initial performances have been marred by accuracy issues and an ineffective supporting cast, significantly hindering his transition into the NFL. While he has displayed moments of brilliance, consistently making quick, accurate throws, he has struggled with longer passes and producing under pressure. The alarming rate of his offensive line's struggles exacerbates his situation, putting him in difficult positions that could lead to the development of bad habits. The Bears must make adjustments to their play calling and protect Williams if they wish to maximize his potential and avoid spiraling into further chaos this season.
The Bears' Future Considerations
The Chicago Bears are in a precarious position as they navigate the development of Caleb Williams amidst a tumultuous offensive environment. With an underperforming offensive line and a coaching staff that has yet to establish an effective game plan, the team's ability to nurture Williams' growth is heavily compromised. It's crucial for the Bears to prioritize improving their offensive scheme and protecting Williams, ensuring that he doesn't develop negative patterns as the season unfolds. With a change in strategy, the Bears can potentially alter the course of their franchise and nurture their young star quarterback.
The Carolina Panthers have benched sophomore quarterback Bryce Young in favor of Andy Dalton, leading The Ringer’s Sheil Kapadia to declare that the former no. 1 pick’s time in Carolina is likely coming to an end soon. Plus, he and Steven Ruiz discuss whether Derek Carr’s success is sustainable, and why Caleb Williams shouldn’t shoulder all the criticism in Chicago. But before all that, Nora Princiotti tells Sheil which 0-2 teams she believes could make a playoff run, as well as the teams she’s writing off.
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CHAPTERS:
Why the Bengals still have hope (00:00)
Doubting the Ravens (08:18)
Are the Titans good? (20:01)
The Rams’ woes (27:16)
Bryce Young benched (35:02)
Derek Carr’s success (49:28)
Caleb Williams’s struggles (55:05)
Hosts: Sheil Kapadia, Nora Princiotti, and Steven Ruiz