5 Panthers players that must perform better at NY Giants in Week 2

Which Carolina Panthers players must perform better when they come up against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium in Week 2?

Well, that was a heartbreaker.

In a game that the Carolina Panthers had no business making close, it all came down to a last-second field goal by an untested rookie attempting a career-long distance. Something fourth-round selection Cade York managed in style.

Week 1 was ugly, there is no getting around that. From miscommunication and a lack of any natural chemistry to multiple bad snaps and handles, there wasn’t much that went right for this Panthers squad. However, there were some bright spots.

With that said, the Panthers have a surprisingly tough matchup in Week 2 as they visit a resurgent Saquon Barkley-led New York Giants team fresh off a shocking upset against the Tennesee Titans. Here are five important players that must perform better for Matt Rhule’s men at MetLife Stadium.

Player No. 1

Baker Mayfield – Carolina Panthers QB

Although Baker Mayfield finished the game in red-hot form, it’s clear that the occasion was a little too much in the early stages. More importantly, offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo put far too much on the quarterback’s plate, especially in the circumstances.

Mayfield must relax right out of the gate and build on the positive momentum generated in the fourth quarter last Sunday. It promises to be a hostile atmosphere against a rejuvenated New York Giants operation, so it’s another huge test of character for the signal-caller in pursuit of victory.

The Carolina Panthers know what Mayfield can provide them when he’s put in good positions. But they can ill afford another slow start versus a team they were embarrassed by in 2021.