Reich Explains the Decision to Call the Plays Again

Offensive play-calling responsibility in Carolina has shifted back to head coach Frank Reich.

Frank Reich wasted no time announcing that he will be regaining control of the offensive play-calling duties by opening up his Wednesday press conference with the news before diving into questions.

"This is not about Thomas. This is about me, it's about the team. I'm in the position I'm in because of years of being a successful offensive coordinator and play-caller. We have eight games left and I just want to give my attention and everything I can do to help the offense to take the next step. It'll still be collaborative. Thomas is still running the show as far as the offense and all the install meetings, gameplanning. He's still right at the center. He and I are working together like we've been all year. I trust Thomas more than anybody and he's helped me become a better coach and a better man. This isn't about that. This is about the team.

"I understand what's going to be said and how it may appear to some -- nothing I can do about that. As I've said from the beginning, the whole process is pretty collaborative anyway."

Regardless of who has been calling the plays, the offense has failed to make any sort of progress, particularly up front on the offensive line. The problem is, it went from just a bad, slow start to the season to the point that folks around the league are questioning whether or not Reich will be in Carolina in 2024. 

Reich made it clear that ownership did not lay down any ultimatums but when you're 1-8 with the No. 1 overall pick at quarterback, there is going to be a sense of pressure on you as a coach to at least show progress. For a coach in Reich's position, it's not surprising that this move was made. When you're potentially fighting for your future, you don't want it to be in someone else's hands, no matter how much you trust that person.

"This should have zero impact on Thomas' career arc," Reich stated. "First of all, anybody that knows Thomas, knows he's brilliant. Great leader, alpha male, fast on his feet. This is a three game sample size on a team and an offense that's been struggling. What was he supposed to do? Was it supposed to be magic his first time calling it in three games? This will have little or no impact on Thomas' long-term trajectory. He's too good of a coach, person, the whole deal."

Frank Reich Regains Control of Offensive Play-Calling Duties

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