Six days after benching the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Carolina Panthers secured their first win of the season with veteran Andy Dalton leading the charge. Dalton’s presence transformed the team’s offense, as they scored on their opening drive and went on to accumulate 437 total yards of offense. Dalton completed 26-37 passes for 319 yards and three touchdowns, connecting with multiple receivers for scores.
The Panthers had struggled to score, only managing 13 points in their first two games with Bryce Young as quarterback. However, under Dalton’s leadership, they put up 36 points in a victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. This marked the first time the Panthers had scored 30 points in a game since the previous December. With Dalton at the helm, the offense appeared not just competent but explosive, a stark contrast to their previous performances.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales initially did not plan to bench Young after their loss to the Chargers, but after reviewing film, he made the decision he believed was best for the team. While benching Young was a tough call, it ultimately paid off with a much-needed win. Canales, a first-year head coach, was aware of the pressure to produce results and knew that continuing to lose could have lasting consequences for him and the team.
Despite Young’s benching, the Panthers have not completely moved on from him, leaving his future uncertain. Canales, who did not have a hand in drafting Young, knew that winning games was crucial for his own future with the organization. Losing the locker room or failing to establish a winning culture could jeopardize Canales’ standing with the team, making the decision to start Dalton a critical one for both short-term success and long-term stability.
With their first win under their belt, the Panthers will now focus on their upcoming game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Canales will continue to face pressure to make the right decisions for the team’s success as he navigates his first season as head coach. The win brings a sense of relief and momentum for the Panthers, but the challenges of the NFL season will continue to test their resilience and ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
