Houston Texans' DeMeco Ryans 'Not Taking Carolina Panthers Lightly'

Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans believes the Carolina Panthers do a really good job on both sides of the ball.

Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said during Monday's press conference that Week 7's bye "came at the right time," but now his mind is solely on the Carolina Panthers.

The Texans and Panthers were both expected to be well below average teams this season, but Houston has soared to a 3-3 record while Carolina is sitting at 0-6.

Despite their record, Ryans explained that he isn't "taking the Panthers lightly," and it starts with rookie quarterback Bryce Young.

"Bryce has done a really good job this year with what he's been given," Ryans said. "He's made some really good decisions with the football and he's made some really nice plays. I'm encouraged by Bryce's play and what he's done, so we have our hands full this week for sure."

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young and Houston Texans coach DeMeco Ryans

Ryans was a big believer in the Panthers offense when he watched the film, but Carolina made a huge move on Oct. 16, when they handed over play-calling duties from coach Frank Reich to offensive coordinator Thomas Brown. Sunday will be his first game of the season in the new role, and Ryans is very familiar with his schemes.

"I'm happy for Tom to get the opportunity as a play-caller," Ryans said. "He's been a fast riser in this league, as I went against him when he was with the Rams. Now for him to get the play-caller role really speaks to the kind of coach that he is. Tom puts the offense in a really good spot to make plays."

In addition to countering Brown and the No. 1 overall pick, Ryans is hoping rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, the No. 2 overall pick, will be up to the task of attacking Carolina's "really good defensive unit."

"I think it starts up front with (Derrick) Brown and (Brian) Burns, who bring it every snap," Ryans said. "We have to make sure we have our eyes on a really talented edge like Burns and get him handled because he can wreck a game. In the back end, they play sound coverage with linebackers flying around too."