4 ways Panthers QB Baker Mayfield can make his old team pay in Week 1

Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield must make red-zone chances count

This is a game that could be decided by fine margins. There doesn’t appear to be much between the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns heading into the contest, which is highlighted by the narrow point spread that slightly favors the hosts.

Baker Mayfield’s arrival tipped the scales to Carolina’s advantage. Something that stemmed from a very smooth transition into the organization, picking up Ben McAdoo’s scheme in rapid time and developing good chemistry with teammates who might have been skeptical following the trade’s confirmation.

Another way Mayfield can help Carolina over the line is by taking advantage of red-zone opportunities when they arise. Weather conditions are not expected to be pleasant according to forecasts, so this area of the field will be the difference when it’s all said and done.

Carolina’s effectiveness in the red zone in 2021 was abysmal. Hopefully, that can now change with Mayfield’s presence under center and the addition of McAdoo as the team’s offensive coordinator.

Having the courage of his convictions is important.

Mayfield knows the NFL world will be watching his every move closely. So turning trips into the 20-yard line to substantial points can lead the Panthers to victory and get their campaign off to the best possible start.