Chuba Hubbard Praises Dave Canales: The Resurgence of the Carolina Panthers

Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard has been vocal about the positive impact new head coach Dave Canales has had on the team. Canales, who has risen through the coaching ranks from an unheralded JV coach to an NFL head coach, has earned the respect and admiration of his players and peers alike.

Hubbard, in a recent interview, highlighted Canales' ability to motivate and lead the team. 'Everything folks have to say about Dave Canales is fantastic,' Hubbard noted, echoing the sentiments of other players and coaches who have praised Canales' leadership and coaching style. Former players like Russell Okung and Baker Mayfield have also commended Canales, with Mayfield referring to him as an 'optimist bully,' a testament to his positive and driven approach.

A New Mindset in the Building

Under Canales' leadership, the Carolina Panthers are embracing a new mindset, one that is focused on hard work, cohesion, and a determination to restore the team's respectability. Hubbard emphasized this shift, stating that despite external opinions, the team is committed to 'keep chopping the tree' and showing their best each week. This mentality is a significant departure from the team's performance in the previous season, which was marked by disappointment and underachievement.

The team's enhanced mentality is also reflected in their on-field performance. In a recent game, the Panthers' run game showed significant improvement, with Hubbard attributing the success to 'trusting the process' and raising the standard each week. He praised the offensive line, particularly highlighting the athleticism and performance of players like Rob, who have been instrumental in the team's success.

Overcoming Injuries and Challenges

Despite the positive momentum, the Panthers have not been immune to challenges, including injuries. Hubbard himself experienced a scare during a joint practice against the New York Jets, where he was hit by safety Chuck Clark and initially sparked concern about a knee injury. However, initial testing was positive, and Canales ensured that Hubbard would undergo further evaluation before returning to play.

The combination of Canales' leadership and the team's renewed commitment to excellence has instilled a sense of optimism among fans and players. While the road to full recovery and success is long, the early signs suggest that the Carolina Panthers are on the right path, ready to face their opponents with a newfound sense of determination and unity.