Frank Reich has resumed his duties as the main play-caller for the offense in Carolina, just a few weeks after relinquishing the role.
By Steve Reed, AP.
Charlotte, N.C.
Frank Reich, the coach of the Carolina Panthers, will resume his role as the team’s offensive play caller after previously handing over those duties to offensive coordinator Thomas Brown.
On October 16th, Reich relinquished his role as the play-caller, just before the Panthers’ bye week. Since then, with Brown calling the plays, the team has a record of 1 win and 2 losses. However, they only managed to score two offensive touchdowns during this time.
Reich had been in charge of play-calling for the initial six games of the season, which all resulted in losses for Carolina.
Unfortunately, the Panthers’ offensive performance has declined in the past three games.
Under Reich’s play-calling, the Panthers averaged 294.7 yards, 20.7 first downs, and 16.3 points per game in six games. However, under Brown’s play-calling in three games, their averages dropped to 237.3 yards, 16.3 first downs, and 11.3 points per game.
All of that has left the Panthers (1-8) 30th in the league in offense and 29th in scoring entering Sunday’s home game against the Dallas Cowboys (6-3) with No. 1 draft pick Bryce Young at quarterback.
Reich stated on Wednesday that the focus is not on Thomas, but rather on himself and the team. He believes that his experience as a successful offensive coordinator and play caller has led him to his current position. With eight games remaining, he is determined to give his full effort and support in order to help the offense improve.
Reich stated that despite Brown being one of the only three Black play callers in the league, he will continue to lead the offensive install meetings and provide input on play calls.
Reich stated that he acknowledges how this may seem to some, but unfortunately, there is nothing he can do to change that. He also reiterated that the entire process is highly cooperative.
According to Reich, the choice is not motivated by worries about his own job stability.
The Panthers have not qualified for the postseason since 2018 when David Tepper became the team’s owner.
Reich stated that he has not received any such ultimatum. He expressed a desire for the team to have control over their own future, and if he has something to offer, he wants to contribute it.
Reich wouldn’t say if there will be any changes to the starting lineup other than Chandler Zavala taking over at left guard for Calvin Throckmorton, who was cut on Tuesday after starting seven games.
Young stated that the transition would not have a significant impact from his point of view.
“The system remains unchanged,” Young stated. “Although the voice in your headset may vary, the plays being called are identical. Since the beginning, both coaches have played a significant role in shaping the game and the offense. This remains true. We are not implementing entirely new plays or terminology.”
Source: wralsportsfan.com