Seth Galina of Pro Football Focus joins to discuss lingering NFC South questions post-2023 season. Topics include Falcons offense concerns, Saints future, importance of elite QB play, impact of young QBs, aging veterans in TB, offensive and defensive strategies, Rams and Falcons cornerback situations, and player analysis like Kyle Pitts and Bijon Robinson.
Bryce Young's growth hinges on pocket awareness and midfield access.
Panthers optimize offense with new receivers and middle field focus.
Falcons face pass rush challenges requiring strategic defensive improvements.
Deep dives
Bryce Young's Year Two Evolution
Can Bryce Young's year two improvements translate to finding success with upgraded receivers, offensive line, and a new play caller? The key areas for his growth include overcoming pressure with better pocket awareness and accessing the middle of the field more effectively, building on the lessons learned in his rookie year.
Unlocking Offensive Potential
With a revamped receiving corps featuring Deonte Johnson, utilizing rookies like Laguette to create mismatches, and focusing on the middle of the field access, the Panthers aim to optimize their offensive strategy. Enhancements in guard manpower and improved run game strategies are aligned to bolster Bryce Young's performance.
Designing a Balanced Offense
Carolina's offensive tweaks emphasize the cheat code plays, like slide action, to enhance the efficiency and diversity of their approach. Looking to minimize pressure and elevate intermediate passing accuracy towards the middle of the field, Bryce Young's progression is contingent on a well-rounded, dynamic offensive game plan.
Strategic Coaching Impact
Under Dave Canales, the Panthers strive to unleash Bryce Young's potential by incorporating adaptable, effective play-calling strategies. By aligning game design with Young's strengths and enhancing his pocket presence, the coaching staff aims to propel the Panthers' offense to a more dynamic and successful level.
Concerns About Quarterback's Pocket Presence and Physical Limitations
The quarterback's accuracy on downfield throws has been exceptional, yet his physical limitations, specifically the limited arm strength and poor pocket presence, create concern for his overall performance. The quarterback's tendency to disintegrate under pressure, drift without a clear plan, and struggle in response to pressure may hinder his potential despite occasional moments of brilliance in his throws.
Potential Defensive Improvements and Need for Pass Rush for the Falcons
The Falcons face a lingering question regarding their pass rush capability, highlighted by deficiencies in their defensive line. Despite solid offensive improvements, particularly in quarterback play, the inadequacies in their defensive front, especially the lack of a strong pass rush, remain a significant concern. The team's strategic shift in defense and the introduction of new defensive additions aim to address the ongoing pass rush challenges, necessitating key player roles and effective defensive deployment for enhanced defensive performance.
For the final episode of this series, Seth Galina of Pro Football Focus joins Robert Mays to take a long, hard look at the NFC South and what the 2023 season did and didn’t tell us about the division.
