4 ways Panthers QB Baker Mayfield can bounce back in Week 2

Baker Mayfield must make better use of his primary weapons

The Carolina Panthers appeared extremely reluctant to give Christian McCaffrey his usual touches in Week 1. Understandable considering his suspect recent injury history, but for stud wide receiver D.J. Moore to get just three receptions from six targets was a recipe for disaster.

These are two dynamic weapons that should be the focal point. However, offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo and Baker Mayfield made the pair afterthoughts in challenging circumstances.

The Cleveland Browns have a top defense. One that knew exactly how to prevent Mayfield from gaining an early advantage and despite getting Carolina ahead with just over a minute remaining, it wasn’t enough thanks to a long Cade York field goal.

Going on the road is never easy no matter the opponent. Brian Daboll has the New York Giants high in confidence and they now have the blueprint of how best to restrict the Panthers on both sides of the football.

Mayfield has two of the best in McCaffrey and Moore. The challenge is getting them the football without becoming too predictable.

Lessons must be learned from Week 1 for both Mayfield and McAdoo. Getting McCaffrey going early opens everything else up, so it would be wise to take some heat off the signal-caller and set the tone differently at MetLife Stadium.

If the Panthers can do this, they have every chance.