4 mistakes Baker Mayfield cannot afford to make in Week 5 vs. 49ers

What mistakes must Carolina Panthers quarterback Baker Mayfield avoid against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5?

Time is running out and patience is wearing thin regarding Baker Mayfield’s chances of becoming the long-term option under center. The Carolina Panthers’ disastrous form on offense has once again been the catalyst behind a dismal run of results, with the quarterback bearing the brunt of criticism throughout the national media as a result.

Mayfield is under no illusions and takes full responsibility for how things are currently unfolding. But there is plenty of blame to go around and things don’t get any easier in Week 5 when the Panthers welcome the San Francisco 49ers to Bank of America Stadium.

Much has been made of San Francisco’s elite defense led by DeMeco Ryans. They are arguably the NFL’s best and wreak havoc at all three levels, so the task awaiting Mayfield this weekend couldn’t be more monumental.

With this in mind, here are four big mistakes Mayfield cannot make versus the Niners in Week 5.

Mistake No. 1

Baker Mayfield must avoid inaccuracy

With a career-low completion percentage of 54.7 through the first four games, it’s clear accuracy is a major issue for Baker Mayfield. The Carolina Panthers aren’t exactly doing the Oklahoma product any favors within a scheme devoid of any creativity, but the quarterback also has to start making throws count in key moments in pursuit of improvements.

The San Francisco 49ers are No. 1 in yards allowed per game, which is a testament to how well rounded this unit is and how influential they can become with early momentum. If Mayfield can’t improve accuracy, it could be another very long afternoon.