4 ways Panthers QB Baker Mayfield can bounce back in Week 2
By Dean Jones
Baker Mayfield must trust his OL
One of the main complications that emerged in Week 1 was a lack of continuity between Baker Mayfield and center Pat Elflein. There were multiple miscommunications and botched snaps that could have resulted in turnovers, which is not the best way to lead an efficient offense by any stretch of the imagination.
Again, this comes with reps. Mayfield split time in practice with Sam Darnold and the Carolina Panthers also alternated Elflein and free-agent signing Bradley Bozeman, who was active on opening day but wasn’t utilized.
The coaching staff has to choose between Bozeman and Elflein now and stick with this for the campaign’s duration. One would be shocked if the former Alabama standout wasn’t given the nod, so the Panthers must get the offensive lineman and Mayfield singing from the same hymn sheet.
Mayfield must also trust his protection to provide the necessary time. Something he wasn’t entirely sure of against the Cleveland Browns given his familiarity with how quickly the likes of Myles Garrett and Jadeveon Clowney can generate pressure.
Trust works both ways. And this can be resolved by building early momentum in what promises to be a hostile atmosphere.