It’s not even the month of June, and NFL predictions are being made on how teams will close out the upcoming 2023 season. In a recent article by Pro Football Network’s Dallas Robinson, the Carolina Panthers are projected to win the NFC South despite having a rookie quarterback under center in Bryce Young. The former Crimson Tide quarterback became the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Young became the first No. 1 overall pick in the common draft era for Crimson Tide football since Joe Namath in 1965. Young gave Nick Saban his first-ever No. 1 overall selection in a draft in his coaching career.
“No. 4 Seed | Carolina Panthers
While the Buccaneers still have a lot of veteran talent, and the Falcons could be feisty based on how Desmond Ridder progresses, the NFC South looks like a two-team race between the Panthers and Saints.
New Orleans may honestly have the better overall roster. It’s an experience-laden group that could push for a playoff spot, especially if Derek Carr thrives in the Saints’ offense. The club’s defense should remain effective under Dennis Allen, and rookies Bryan Bresee and Isaiah Foskey could give them a push up front.
But I’m betting on Bryce Young taking the Panthers over the top. Remember, Carolina won seven games last year while running through Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, and P.J. Walker at quarterback. Young represents a massive improvement, and he’s NFL-ready enough to take over an offense that no longer has DJ Moore but did add Adam Thielen, DJ Chark, Hayden Hurst, Miles Sanders, and second-round rookie Jonathan Mingo.”
Robinson has a valid point to a certain extent. Their roster has been significantly upgraded compared to last season. However, Carolina will only go as far as Bryce Young can take them. His growth as a passer at the next level will be the most significant factor in the Panthers’ winning the division. Young was surrounded by elite NFL talent on both sides of the football when he played with the Alabama Crimson Tide. However, those days are now gone.
There will be opponents with a similar skillset that can minimize his effectiveness as a playmaker. While their moves may not be as flashy as Carolina’s during free agency, the Saints have improved at the most critical position, such as quarterback. Derek Carr’s presence on the field instantly gives them a chance to win many games they could not succeed in 2022. Also, there has been an influx of new talent playing in positions such as defensive tackle, running back, and wide receiver. The recent draft class has been deemed a success by many national pundits.
Here is how Robinson has the rest of the playing out in 2023.
1 Seed: Eagles
2 Seed: Lions
3 Seed: Seahawks
4 Seed: Panthers
5 Seed: 49ers
6 Seed: Cowboys
7 Seed: Bears
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