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

Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield’s grade

It took Baker Mayfield and the Carolina Panthers too long to get going. In a game of fine margins such as this, such a slow opening to proceedings was always set to make a big-time difference one way or another.

Mayfield deserves a tremendous amount of credit for regrouping and getting the Panthers within touching distance of an opening day triumph. When he finally found something like his top gear, the Cleveland Browns could do little to stop him.

Putting this all together over four quarters is the next big challenge for Mayfield. He cannot do it alone, so offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo must generate a more balanced approach in Week 2 against a New York Giants team riding on the crest of a wave following an impressive victory at the Tennessee Titans.

Miracles weren’t going to happen overnight. But it does seem like this was another game where the Panthers beat themselves, although they weren’t helped by two extremely questionable officiating calls down the stretch.

Overall Grade: C-

There was an obvious mixture of good and bad where Mayfield is concerned. The player will be determined to put things right and another week of developing chemistry is only going to help his cause next weekend and beyond.