Panthers QB Bryce Young struggles on Friday, as 'dominant' defense racks up sacks and INTs
That was true this morning, when the defense pushed back following a particularly fine performance by Young and company from their previous outing on Wednesday. In fact, head coach Dave Canales began his post-practice by commending the unit for their strong effort.
"Defense—great response today. A dominant practice for the defense," Canales stated. "Some turnovers, some beautiful hits. Guys squaring the offensive guys up, showing each other the type of physical play that they're expecting each other—which I love. I love that it's coming from them.
"It's [Tre'von] Moehrig, it's Lathan Ransom showing up. Thomas Incoom had a great day today. Pat Jones had some nice rushes. I can go on and on, but it was just a lot of physical play. Trevin [Wallace] had a nice hit out there.
"And that's what we need. The offense needs to be able to be prepared for that kind of physical nature of the game. So, I love the finish of the practice."
The finish of practice saw second-year cornerback Chau Smith-Wade pick off Young on a pass intended for 2025 first-round pick Tetairoa McMillan. Young experienced the same fate earlier in 11-on-11 drills, courtesy of interceptions by Pro Bowl corner Jaycee Horn and veteran safety Nick Scott.
He was also "sacked" a number of times, with defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton controlling the trenches and leading the charge. Incoom, a third-year outside linebacker, notched a couple of takedowns as well.
So, yeah, Friday was undoubtedly a much-needed step in right direction for the Carolina defense—which allowed the most points in NFL history (534) this past season.
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