Panthers & Canales have a chance to give positive first impression
The preseason kicks off tonight for the Carolina Panthers. Remember how that went in 2023? They would be wise to avoid a repeat performance.
A first impression is typically not forgotten, especially a negative one.
Think back to a year ago at this time. Frank Reich was the coach of the Carolina Panthers.
After what was deemed some successful practices against the New York Jets, the team was bulldozed 27-0 in the actual preseason game and only mustered 199 total yards on offense. The offensive line allowed eight hits and five sacks and had the group had a meeting after the first preseason game.
Reich admitted afterwards that they took a generic approach to the offensive game plan.
While Reich had been a head coach before, that game was a horrific first impression. As you know, he didn’t even make it to December as head coach because of how awful the team was.
The Panthers return to the field tonight for their first preseason game, 214 days after capping off their most nightmarish season in franchise history as they take on the New England Patriots.
First year Head Coach Dave Canales has a chance to make a positive first impression with this game tonight.
He may have already ruined that for some as he opted to not play Bryce Young and it’s very likely other starters will sit as well. Given the current injury situation and extreme lack of depth, I can understand it to a degree even if I don’t agree with the decision.
Even if all of the starters sit, the Panthers need to play with a purpose tonight. Looking organized and limiting pre-snap penalties is a such a low bar to clear but that’s just where the franchise is at this moment.
We know this team likely won’t win anything of significance this season but giving a good first impression on the field would be beneficial for Canales and the organization.