The upcoming divisional rematch between the New Orleans Saints and the Carolina Panthers brings significant quarterback storylines for both teams. For New Orleans, Derek Carr has been managing a shoulder injury that’s impacted his recent performances. While he’s remained in the lineup, his limited mobility and occasional inaccuracy have raised questions about his effectiveness and durability as the season progresses.
On Carolina’s side, rookie quarterback Bryce Young has faced challenges adjusting to the NFL. After dealing with an ankle injury earlier in the season, Young’s return brought glimpses of his potential but also highlighted the struggles of a rookie quarterback navigating a developing offense. The Panthers have been hoping to see more consistency from Young, who’s been working on adapting to the league’s speed and reading complex defensive schemes.
With both teams striving for stability at quarterback, this matchup could hinge on which team’s quarterback can manage the game more effectively despite these challenges.
The Week 9 matchup between the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers has taken an unexpected turn since their lopsided Week 1 game. What looked back then like a promising season opener for the Saints turned out to be one of their few highlights, as both teams have since struggled to find their footing. Entering Sunday’s game, the Saints hold a 2-6 record, while the Panthers are just behind at 1-7, making this a clash between two of the league’s lower-ranked teams.
Adding to the intrigue, both squads are turning back to their original starting quarterbacks. New Orleans is expected to start Derek Carr, who’s been dealing with a shoulder injury but remains their best option under center. Carolina, meanwhile, is placing its faith back in rookie Bryce Young, hoping he can use these games to find rhythm and confidence despite a challenging start to his NFL career. This rematch may not have playoff implications, but it’s a crucial game for both teams to establish some momentum and begin shifting their season narratives.
Derek Carr’s return to the Saints’ lineup after a three-week absence due to an oblique injury adds a much-needed boost to New Orleans’ struggling offense. Carr’s experience and leadership bring stability that the Saints have missed, and they’ll be counting on him to spark a turnaround as they try to recover from a disappointing 2-6 start. Carr’s health and ability to avoid further aggravating his oblique will be crucial, especially given the physicality of the Panthers’ defense.
For Carolina, the decision to reinsert second-year quarterback Bryce Young as the starter is a move to recommit to their franchise plan. Despite a difficult start and some inconsistencies, Young has shown flashes of potential. The Panthers are hoping his continued reps will help his development, allowing him to settle into his role and grow more comfortable with the NFL pace. Both quarterbacks will have the chance to reset and lead their teams, and this game provides a meaningful opportunity for each to reestablish confidence and direction in a challenging season.
Bryce Young will start for Panthers against Saints
The Panthers’ decision to stick with Bryce Young at quarterback, despite Andy Dalton’s return from a thumb injury, signals their commitment to Young’s development as the franchise’s cornerstone. After being benched for Dalton following a challenging rookie season and a rocky start to 2024, Young’s performance in Week 8 showed both his potential and areas for improvement. He completed 24-of-37 passes for 224 yards, throwing two touchdowns but also two interceptions in a loss to Denver. The Panthers are looking for Young to build on his promising moments and gain consistency as the season progresses.
Meanwhile, the Saints are determined not to play into Young’s redemption arc. New Orleans, riding a six-game losing streak, is desperate for a win and is bringing back Derek Carr to stabilize their offense. With both teams struggling to find rhythm, this divisional matchup has added weight, as the Saints aim to capitalize on their defensive strengths and pressure Young into mistakes. For New Orleans, containing Young and halting their losing streak could mark a turning point in an otherwise challenging season.
