4 critical observations from the Panthers success vs. Saints in Week 3

Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield must improve

Unfortunately, it can’t all be positive. Once again we saw a stagnant Carolina Panthers passing game and another struggle for Baker Mayfield.

The quarterback ended the game with a 12-of-25 completion success for 170 yards and one touchdown. It was another contest where Mayfield finished under 50 percent distributing the football.

If it wasn’t for the 67-yard score to Laviska Shenault Jr., Mayfield’s stats could have looked much worse. Halfway through the third quarter, he had just 44 passing yards – disappointing from the former No. 1 overall selection.

The excuses are running out for Mayfield.

Through the last two weeks, the Panthers have established a solid run game running for 145 and 146 yards respectively. During his time with the Cleveland Browns, Mayfield’s good play was built on this, so the foundations are there for Carolina to be an above-average offense – something that hasn’t come to fruition as yet.

Some of the blame can fairly be placed on offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo for some frankly questionable play calling. However, at some point, Mayfield needs to stand up and make plays.

Once again D.J. Moore was sparsely involved totaling just a single reception for two yards. If the Panthers and Mayfield want to improve, he must get the Maryland product involved regularly because things don’t seem to be meshing right now.