Reich’s offense was a struggling affair, bogged down by poor blocking, a nonexistent running game and a receiver crew that lacked playmakers. No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young’s problems were the worst. The quarterback has exhibited bad habits despite his loss-making and rarely showcased playmaking abilities. The coach handing the play calls to Brown and then taking them back didn’t help the inconsistent offense.
The Panthers have a bottom-four rating (15.7; 29th) and total offense (265.9; 30th) in 2023. Under Reich, the club averaged 92.6 rushing YPG (29th) and has three rushing touchdowns (T-fewest).
Carolina ranks 31st in the NFL with a -119 point margin in 2023 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 forgoing a 2024 first-round pick who is currently ranked No. 1 overall, seeing the young signal-caller’s progress over the last six games is paramount . The owners clearly didn’t believe the development would come with Reich’s management. Now it’s up to Brown and Caldwell to change the narrative over time.
Reich, whom the Indianapolis Colts fired after Week 9 of 2022, became the third head coach in NFL history to be fired in back-to-back seasons – Chip Kelly (Eagles and 49ers) and Ray Rhodes (Eagles and Packers).