Bryce Young turned heads with a stellar performance, showing resilience after previously being sidelined by the Carolina Panthers earlier in the season, drawing commendations from none other than Patrick Mahomes.
Facing off against Mahomes’ Kansas City Chiefs, the Panthers put up a fierce battle but ultimately succumbed by a single score to the reigning champions, with Young delivering a solid 21-of-35 for 263 yards and a touchdown, avoiding any turnovers.
Young’s precision passing notably shone when connecting with David Moore, Adam Thielen, and Xavier Legette during the clash. However, it was Mahomes and the Chiefs who had the last laugh, clinching victory as Spencer Shrader’s field goal sailed through for a dramatic win.
Post-match, Mahomes didn’t hold back in his praise for the former Heisman Trophy recipient’s exceptional performance, telling reporters: “I thought he played his tail off, man. He throws a really good football.”
Mahomes continued to extol Young’s recent form, “I think it’s been cool to see him bounce back these last few weeks and play some great football, because I know he has it because I’ve seen it for a long time. He gave us a scare today, man. He played his tail off. He’s been a great player for a long time and won a lot of football games.”
Earlier doubts about Young’s prospects, particularly concerning his height, had gained traction after he found himself benched in week three, despite the Panthers having traded multiple draft picks to secure him as their number one overall pick from Alabama in 2023.
After a minor car crash took Andy Dalton out of the game, Bryce Young stepped up to the plate once again, showing remarkable improvement and agility in the pocket, creating opportunities for himself.
His recent performance was nothing short of his best to date, earning him praise from Panthers head coach Dave Canales who said: “Yeah, I mean, I don’t have to make any statements… he’s making it for himself. He’s continued to show us the progress we’re looking for.
“It’s just all of it. It’s just all the things that he continues to grow, take advantage of opportunities, and lead. Another great week of practice in terms of just pushing the guys and really being the voice out there, all the things. So all those things are stuff that I’m proud about, just the way that he’s continuing to grow.”
The Panthers’ decision to reject trade offers for Young after benching him earlier in the season indicates their belief in him as their future star, making it unlikely they’ll pick another quarterback in the upcoming draft.
