4 critical observations from disastrous Carolina Panthers loss in Week 4
By Luke Gray
Carolina Panthers QB Baker Mayfield isn’t performing
There was real excitement when the Carolina Panthers finally made the trade to bring Baker Mayfield from the Cleveland Browns. Just four weeks into the season, fans are calling for the return of 2021 starter Sam Darnold once he is healthy.
While I’d advise fans to remember the former USC man’s play a season ago, this drastic train of thought is indicative of how much Mayfield has struggled.
Mayfield ended the Week 4 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals with 22-of-36 for 197 passing yards, one touchdown, two interceptions, and a measly passer rating of 61.9. In what has been a tough start to the season, this was easily his worst performance so far.
The former No. 1 overall selection led the league in batted passes heading into the clash and added to this with five more including one tipped by J.J. Watt for an interception. Whether this blame falls on offensive scheming from Ben McAdoo or Mayfield’s execution, the fact of the matter is the Oklahoma product must improve.
While I’m not ready to give up on Mayfield just yet, he must show stark improvement quickly. He was booed loudly at points during Sunday’s game and things do not get easier in Week 5 with the imposing San Francisco 49ers defense rolling into town.