4 Panthers players who must raise their game vs. 49ers in Week 5
By Noah Bryce
Baker Mayfield – Carolina Panthers QB
Much has been said, and rightfully so, about the lackluster start to the Baker Mayfield era with the Carolina Panthers. This is something that has many, including myself, puzzled for a plethora of reasons.
Mayfield has always been a polarizing player. From the antics to the trash-talk, everyone has an opinion on the former Oklahoma Sooner.
However, ever since coming to the Panthers, that swagger has seemed to disappear entirely. Replaced by a calm and collected demeanor that seems misplaced and disingenuous.
The hyped revenge game in Week 1 against the Cleveland Browns lacked any fireworks. This weekend’s contest is another opportunity for that swagger to finally make an appearance given who they are playing against and the fact many wanted Carolina to go after Jimmy Garrroppolo, instead.
The one thing that made Mayfield special, is just gone. And with it any real chance of the Panthers seeing the signal-caller that led Cleveland to the playoffs in 2020.
Beyond anything Mayfield is able to do on the field, simply having that mindset of being better than whoever is on the other side is enough to make any team play above their ability. The Panthers need fire, they need a spark, and he is the only player that can give them that.