How Pete Carroll Shaped the Way Dave Canales Builds Carolina
Dave Canales he knew that he was facing a difficult challenge when he took over as head coach of the Carolina Panthers. However, in his second year, Canales has Panthers on the brink of the playoffs.
The head coach deserves a lot of credit for helping orchestrate Carolina’s turnaround. But Canales thinks he spent time with former Seattle Seahawks coach Pete Carroll is what helped him establish himself for success, via ESPN’s David Newton.
“I witnessed Coach Carroll compete and try to find ways to impact his team. The way he presented his meetings, the energy we bring. He spent a lot of time challenging the staff, especially late in the season.”
“If you bring great energy to these meetings, and you bring great energy to the field, they’re going to match that energy and fly with it. They’re going to realize that this is so important today. What can we do to influence that in a positive way?”
After a 5-12 record in Canales’ first season, expectations around Carolina weren’t as high entering the season. However, the Panthers have proven the doubters wrong, currently leading the NFC South with their 8-7 record. Defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20 in Week 16, but they are in the driver’s seat for the division.
There is still work to do on both sides of the ball. Carolina enters Week 17 ranked 25th in total offense, averaging 306.7 yards per game. On the flip side, the Panthers rank 17th in total defense, allowing 329.1 IPG.
Whatever the stats, Canales beats the Panthers. If Carolina can win the NFC South, it’s proof that the franchise is headed in the right direction.
2025-12-24 05:14:00
