How can Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield bounce back from defeat against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in Week 2?
It’s probably a relief for Baker Mayfield to put the Cleveland Browns game and all the extra attention in the rearview mirror. The quarterback had the deal with a significant amount leading up to the contest, but he was unable to mark his competitive Carolina Panthers debut with a victory despite a sensational rally in the fourth quarter.
Mayfield‘s performance didn’t get going until very late in the day. Nerves and a lack of chemistry played a role in this, which makes Carolina’s game at the New York Giants in Week 2 one of utmost importance.
The Panthers cannot afford to lose a ninth straight contest and begin their campaign 0-2. Mayfield proved he can make things happen, it’s just a case of fine-tuning the scheme and providing the former Oklahoma star with everything he needs to get this organization back on track.
With this in mind, here are four ways Mayfield can bounce back at MetLife Stadium in Week 2.
Way No. 1
Baker Mayfield must be composed
Perhaps it was the fact he was going up against his old employers. But there wasn’t much in the way of composure from Baker Mayfield under center until his superb turnaround that almost snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.
Mayfield was a cool character despite things not going his way and following the interception towards Shi Smith. This mentality will serve him well in New York, which isn’t exactly the most welcoming environment for opposing quarterbacks.
This will come in time. But last weekend’s loss only raises the stakes for Mayfield and Carolina in the coming weeks.
Baker Mayfield must slow down
There were times during Baker Mayfield’s competitive debut when he looked like he was playing too fast. The quarterback is still familiarizing himself with the scheme after Matt Rhule insisted on a quarterback competition with Sam Darnold this offseason, which was always going to come with potential complications when push came to shove.
Slowing things down mentally would be a good place to start for Mayfield. His desire to win and competitive edge versus the team that cast him aside in Week 1 played a part, but the signal-caller must ensure this doesn’t become an ongoing trend during his potential road to redemption.
Ben McAdoo also has a part to play in this. The offensive coordinator was criticized for putting too much on Mayfield right out of the gate on Sunday, which negated Christian McCaffrey’s influence and put the Carolina Panthers in a hole they were unable to get out of.
The weapons are there for Carolina and Mayfield demonstrated late how he’s able to conjure things up when provided enough time. But processing things more effectively in the pocket is the only way the Heisman Trophy winner is going to make a better go of things in a different environment.
Next up is the New York Giants, who boast some outstanding playmakers across their front seven but remain a little suspect in the secondary. Something Mayfield can capitalize on if he takes everything in his stride and doesn’t force the issue.
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.
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.