Bank of America Stadium | Carolina Panthers
Bank of America Stadium | Carolina Panthers
Dave Canales, the coach of the Carolina Panthers, returned to Charlotte after a successful trip to Germany where his team secured a 20-17 overtime victory. Despite the fatigue from a long flight, Canales expressed satisfaction with how the experience contributed to team chemistry. He emphasized the importance of such trips in building relationships among players.
"That's the type of football that can help us put us in position to have success and to win games, to be able to play in all phases," said Canales. He noted that during the journey, players engaged more with each other due to shared time on flights and at their hotel. "Long flights, guys talking together...it's special moments," he added.
The team's performance on this trip was not just about winning but also about fostering unity. Cade Mays reflected on this sentiment: "It was a trip, was a great experience...just spending time with teammates that you don't usually get to spend time with."
With seven games remaining in the season and coming off their bye week, Canales hopes his team will return refreshed for upcoming challenges. "I just expect a great opportunity for guys to kind of reflect," he mentioned regarding their preparation for future games.
Veteran player Taylor Moton emphasized using this break wisely for recovery rather than leisure: "For me, I'm making sure to take this opportunity to get my body as refreshed as I can."
On-field performance against the Giants showed significant improvement as well. The offensive line managed effectively against one of the league's top defenses by allowing only one sack throughout the game. This achievement was credited by Canales not only to strategic planning but also quick decision-making by quarterback Bryce Young and cooperation among receivers.
"I'm proud of this team and every week the offensive line...we work to take steps in the right direction," said Moton about their collective effort.
In terms of injuries, running back Chuba Hubbard is reportedly fine after an awkward fall during Sunday's game while Miles Sanders' condition remains uncertain pending further evaluation for his foot/ankle issue. Rookie Jonathon Brooks did not play due partly because it wasn't deemed necessary yet according to Canales' assessment before their next matchup.
Canales concluded optimistically regarding these developments: "We've got 10 games now under our belt...It's just a really good reset."