Grading Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield’s performance in Week 1

Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield’s good

Things looked incredibly bleak for the Carolina Panthers after a first half that can be described as disastrous. However, Baker Mayfield has never been one to go down without a fight and this proved to be the case once again.

Mayfield came to life midway through the third quarter and this continued right until the end. The quarterback’s urgency and ability to inspire came across in no uncertain terms, leading to a rushing touchdown and a deep bomb to wide receiver Robbie Anderson that finally got the fanbase off their seats.

This was followed by Mayfield entering the red zone late in the contest. But instead of going for the throat, offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo opted for the cautious approach with three consecutive running plays and a field goal in the hope Carolina’s defense could get a stop.

While it might have been beneficial to lean on Mayfield – who was red-hot by this point – it doesn’t detract from the positive turnaround accomplished by the Heisman Trophy winner with the spotlight glaring brighter than ever.

Mayfield finished his final five drives with  9-of-12 passing for 211 yards and two combined touchdowns. He also led his team down the field on a game-winning drive that unfortunately went the other way.

There’s a lot of hard work ahead. But with Mayfield, the Panthers could have some light at the end of the tunnel.