Reich’s offense has been a slog, hobbled by poor blocking, a non-existent run game, and a receiving corps lacking playmakers. Worst of all are the struggles of No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young. The midfielder has shown bad habits amidst a losing playmaking ability that rarely shines. The coach handing the play-call to the Browns and then returning them to an inconsistent offense didn’t help.
The Panthers had the fourth-most total offense (15.7;29) and total offense (265.9;30) in 2023. Under Reich, YPG averaged 92.6 rushing yards (29th) and had three rushing touchdowns (T-less ).
Carolina is at -119 points in 2023, 31st in the NFL, and has scored 15 or fewer points in seven games (T-2nd most in the NFL).
Given the investment the Panthers have made in Young, including giving up a 2024 first-round pick, who is currently ranked No. 1 overall, seeing progress from the young signal-caller is crucial in the final six games. The monarchy clearly did not believe that development would come with the Reich running things. Now it’s up to Brown and Caldwell to change the narrative down the stretch.
Reich, who was fired by the Indianapolis Colts after Week 9 of 2022, became the third head coach in NFL history to be fired in consecutive seasons — Chip Kelly (Eagles and 49ers) and Ray Rhodes (Eagles and Packers).
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