4 ways Panthers QB Baker Mayfield can bounce back in Week 3 vs. Saints

Baker Mayfield must turn red-zone trips into TDs

This has been a glaring problem for the Carolina Panthers since Matt Rhule became head coach. Their inability to convert red-zone trips into touchdowns has proved extremely costing given how many of the former Baylor man’s 25 losses were close and it doesn’t appear like the introduction of Ben McAdoo is changing things all that much.

McAdoo’s lack of invention schematically has come in for some significant criticism over the first two weeks. There’s very little movement pre-snap and the route concepts are all-too-predictable to further complicate matters.

Baker Mayfield is still picking up the system and what’s required. Although the quarterback admitted to some growing pains stemming from a lack of prolonged reps in camp, that excuse won’t wash for much longer within a fanbase that is growing weary of watching poor execution and a failure to put everything together in all phases.

"“There’s growing pains. The first two weeks were a really good test for us, but we just have to keep on pushing forward because there’s a lot of ball left.”"

Remaining composed in the red zone, leaning on Christian McCaffrey, and improved play-calling from McAdoo would help a lot. There might also be some strong field position to work with throughout the game if Jameis Winston provides a turnover attempt or two in Carolina’s direction.

If Mayfield can accomplish this, then it might be the springboard he needs.