CHARLOTTE, N.C. (CHARLOTTE SPORTS LIVE) — While other kids his age were playing with action figures, it’s likely Brian Callahan was already busy trying to understand play-action.
“Find different ways to exploit those matchups and secondary structures and all that,” he said last year.
That’s what happens when you’re the son of a football coach. Brian’s dad, Bill, was the former head man of the Oakland Raiders, leading them to a Super Bowl appearance in 2003. Now, 21 years later, his 39-year-old son appears to be on the verge of taking the next step in his career.
ESPN Insider is predicting that the younger Callahan could be the next Panthers HC; however, he has yet to meet with or be mentioned by the team.
“The passing game has become the focal point,” Brian said, explaining the key to the Bengals attack.
The passing game is what put Callahan on the map. Though Cincinnati took a step back this year due to injuries, the team finished in the top 10 in points and yards the previous season and has proven to be a force since Callahan joined the squad in 2019 as the offensive coordinator.
“You want guys that show the ability on tape to hit home runs,” Brian said, explaining what kind of players he looks for.
One guy who definitely does is his quarterback, Joe Burrow. Granted, Callahan alone wasn’t responsible for his success but you can’t deny that he played a part. Seeing how Callahan was quarterback himself, it’s clear he knows all the little tricks
“It’s an advantage and our league is made up [of] miniscule advantages and that’s got to be one of them,” he said.
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Granted, he’ll have a different roster at his disposal. But should Callahan come to Carolina, he’ll have another top pick to work with in Byrce Young. And make no mistake, his new quarterback would be just as hungry to succeed as his old one.
Callahan is reportedly scheduled to meet with the Panthers on Thursday, January 18.