4 burning questions Carolina Panthers fans are asking ahead of Week 4

Carolina Panthers’ offense disconnect

It appears there is a disconnect between Baker and his receivers at times. I have heard the offensive playbook is extensive. That being said, who seems to be struggling to master it? If it’s not just one or two players that struggle, have we thought of dumbing it down and maybe asking Baker what are some of his best plays he likes to run and maybe steer it more towards that? – Len Redd

Thank you for your question, Len! This is a good one. There is a lot to break down here, so let’s go with your first question: who’s struggling to master Ben McAdoo’s playbook?

As for most teams with a new offensive coordinator, there is a period where players are learning the playbook throughout the entire offseason and into the early portion of the campaign. This is a similar case for the Carolina Panthers, it seems, through the first three weeks.

As Len alluded to, I too have heard about McAdoo’s playbook and play-calls being extensive. Players don’t automatically have the entire scheme down by the time the season rolls around. The language of the play-calls could be difficult to take in, especially in a newer system.

There will be miscommunication between the quarterback and his receivers. However, I wouldn’t expect this to be a normal thing for the team as the season goes along.

Baker Mayfield still seems to be adjusting. The former No. 1 overall draft pick arrived in Carolina shortly before camp and wasn’t named the starter until midway through the preseason thanks to Matt Rhule’s little competition stunt among his quarterbacks, left tackle, guard, and center. The chemistry and continuity are still a work in progress.

Now, let’s answer Len’s second part to his question: should the offense be simplified to Mayfield’s liking?

To be honest, it’s not the worst idea. Though, it’s hard to imagine McAdoo deciding this week or at any point this season to completely change the schematics after three games.

However, if McAdoo wants to get Mayfield into a rhythm of any sort or make him feel comfortable, I would recommend more usage of spacing, sticks, and mill concepts to get No. 6 into favorable matches against opposing defenses. These are concepts that worked for him during his last two seasons with the Cleveland Browns.

Mayfield is the elephant in the room. He has to play better. The former Oklahoma star looks antsy in the pocket. His lower-half mechanics are out of sync with the upper half at times. Other than that, his play has been okay.

These are similar concerns that caused his struggles and inconsistent stretches of play during his time in south Ohio. Even so, I’m naturally optimistic and I expect the chemistry and continuity to improve between Mayfield and his receivers going forward.

Again, the quarterback needs to show improvement, but I think you’ll see the offense perform better as the season goes along. This brings me to the next burning question.