The Carolina Panthers’ heartbreaking overtime loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers wasn’t without its lessons. Head coach Dave Canales provided a candid assessment of the team’s performance, offering insights on Bryce Young’s growth, the execution gaps, and what it will take for the Panthers to win close games.
Missed Opportunities and Controlling the Controllables
Canales didn’t shy away from pointing out missed chances. “We’ve got to make our kicks. We’ve got to take care of the ball at the end,” he stated. The Panthers had a chance to close the game in regulation but faltered in the red zone, going 1-for-4. Canales emphasized the importance of executing in critical moments, calling it “the story of the game.” Despite forcing two interceptions, the team couldn’t capitalize consistently.
Bryce Young’s Poise Under Pressure
Despite the loss, Canales praised his quarterback for navigating a tough matchup. “I thought he played great. He made some critical throws in critical situations,” Canales said. Young faced relentless pressure but showcased his ability to keep the team in the game. His decision-making, including knowing when to throw the ball away, earned Canales’ confidence. “He gave us a chance to win,” Canales added.