3 keys to success for the Carolina Panthers vs. Browns in Week 1

Carolina Panthers QB play

For the past several seasons, the Carolina Panthers’ quarterback play hasn’t been good, simple as that.

Baker Mayfield immediately changes that narrative. The former No. 1 overall selection was drafted by the Cleveland Browns and even led them to their first playoff since 1994 during a memorable 2020 campaign.

Despite this, the Browns still chose to move on from Mayfield and pursue Deshaun Watson. How the Oklahoma product plays will be a big part of the Panthers’ success or lack thereof.

Mayfield provides the Panthers with a fiery personality and some exciting traits. He’s got a massive chip on his shoulder with a lot to prove this upcoming season as he’s set to be a free agent next spring.

The Panthers are hoping that he can return to his 2020 form where Mayfield had a really solid season.

Mayfield is a player that has a very strong arm and can uncork some long pass completions while being able to control a game or extend the play with his legs if necessary. He has already built chemistry with his Panthers teammates and that should grow positively as the season goes on.

This game will mean a lot to Mayfield. He’ll want to prove that the Browns made a mistake in moving on from him after taking some unwarranted shots at his character.

Mayfield’s play on Sunday will be a big factor in whether or not this team can win in Week 1. There are 16 games after this one, but victory won’t ever feel sweeter.