Bryce Young Set for Playoff Debut Against Rams
Charlotte, 11 January 2026 – Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is gearing up for his first NFL playoff appearance as the team hosts the Los Angeles Rams in the wild-card round. Despite a challenging 8-9 regular season, Young has shown growth, setting career highs in passing yards and touchdowns, and the Panthers clinched the NFC South title through a tiebreaker.
Young’s 2025 Season Overview
Bryce Young, the 2023 first overall pick, completed his third NFL season with a mix of highs and lows. He finished with 3,011 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions across 16 games, achieving a 63.6 completion percentage. Young’s ability to lead comeback drives was evident, tying for the most in the league with six fourth-quarter or overtime wins. However, inconsistency plagued his outings, with performances ranging from a franchise-record 448 yards against Atlanta to a season-low 54 yards against Seattle. Critics, including former quarterback Kurt Warner, have highlighted areas for improvement, such as footwork in the pocket, but Young’s poise in clutch moments remains a strength.
Key Facts and Stats
| Category | 2025 Regular Season |
|---|---|
| Passing Yards | 3,011 |
| Touchdowns | 23 |
| Interceptions | 11 |
| Completion Percentage | 63.6% |
| Games with 200+ Yards | 3 |
| Comeback Wins | 6 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Bryce Young’s strengths heading into the playoffs?
Young excels in high-pressure situations, having led six comeback drives this season. His pre-snap reads and quick release have improved, allowing him to perform well against blitzes and in clutch moments.
How did the Panthers qualify for the playoffs?
The Panthers finished with an 8-9 record but secured the NFC South title via a tiebreaker after the Atlanta Falcons defeated the New Orleans Saints on the final day of the regular season.
What challenges does Young face against the Rams?
The Rams boast a strong defence, having held opposing quarterbacks to under 150 yards in multiple games. Young will need to avoid turnovers and utilise play-action passes to exploit mismatches, especially with receivers like Tetairoa McMillan.