Bryce Young responds to Panthers' embarrassing preseason opener

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated Aug 12, 2023 9:52 PM ET

Following the Carolina Panthers' embarrassing 27-0 loss to the New York Jets in their preseason opener Saturday, No. 1 overall pick, quarterback Bryce Young, showed maturity beyond his years following the tough outing.

Speaking with reporters after the game, Young took responsibility for the lackluster effort, despite playing only three offensive series.

"Starting with myself, there's definitely things I could've done better," Young told Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer. "Us, as a unit, we all take accountability. We all look in the mirror first. That's what we put on tape, that's what we have. We have to learn from it. We have to own it."

Young's numbers weren't overly impressive, finishing 4-of-6 for 21 yards while leading the Panthers to only one first down. However, the moment didn't look too big for Young, and while leading the huddle, he seemed completely in control.

Seemingly under constant duress, Young suffered only one sack on the night. Though, he did take his fair share of hits against the Jets, which might raise concerns about the line in front of Young.

One hit, in particular, came on his first pass completion, courtesy of defensive end Solomon Thomas.

While there were some concerns about Young's 5-foot-10, 194-pound frame, he passed those tests with flying colors Saturday, showing no ill effect from the physicality.

However, perhaps the most impressive part of Young's debut may have been how he handled the tough questions following a loss.

After what had to have been at least a slightly sour first taste of the NFL, not only did Young give thoughtful responses, but number one, he took the blame. If he's to become the face of the Panthers, he'll have to be the same guy whether after a win or loss, and so far, Young looks up for the part.

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