Seahawks Prepare for Veteran Quarterback Andy Dalton After Panthers’ Bryce Young Sidelined with Ankle Injury
Earlier this week, Seahawks coach Pete Carroll had nothing but praise for Panthers rookie quarterback Bryce Young. Unfortunately for Carroll’s team, they won’t have the opportunity to face the first overall pick in the draft as Young is out with an ankle injury.
With the news of Young’s absence, Carroll was asked how the replacement of Young with veteran Andy Dalton would affect their defensive game plan. Carroll acknowledged their familiarity with Dalton, stating, “We’ve seen him and knew him well. [We] respect him, [and] all that for all of the obvious reasons.”
Carroll also admitted that the change in quarterbacks may alter the offensive approach of the Panthers, as they were expecting more of a running threat from Young. Nevertheless, Carroll believes that the Panthers will retain their great style and scheme.
This will not be the first time the Seahawks have faced Dalton. Last year, in Dalton’s second game starting for the Saints, he led New Orleans to a 39-32 victory over the Seahawks. In the 2019 season opener, the Seahawks managed to defeat Dalton’s Bengals with a narrow score of 21-20. However, Dalton excelled individually, throwing for 418 yards and two touchdowns.
Dalton’s success against the Seahawks is not exclusive to recent years. In 2015, Dalton and the Bengals emerged victorious with a 27-24 win in Cincinnati, while Dalton’s rookie season in 2011 saw him lead the Bengals to a dominant 34-12 victory over the Seahawks in Seattle.
Considering Dalton’s 3-1 record against Carroll’s Seahawks, it is clear that the team should not underestimate his ability. Carroll remains wary of what Dalton can do against the Seattle defensive scheme, which he has implemented since taking over as head coach in 2010.
As the Seahawks prepare to face the Panthers this week, they will undoubtedly adjust their defensive strategy to counter Dalton’s presence. With previous success against Seattle, Dalton will undoubtedly strive to continue his winning streak and prove his value as a veteran quarterback in the league.