4 major observations from Baker Mayfield’s performance at the Bengals

Did Baker Mayfield benefit from empty calories?

Statistically speaking, this was much improved by Baker Mayfield. But to examine his production without context would be unfair.

The Cincinnati Bengals were in complete command of this game and out of sight midway through the second quarter. This allowed them to play a little softer from a coverage standpoint and even rest some key defenders as the second half wore on.

This benefitted Mayfield and probably allowed him to get into a better rhythm. Had there been more on the line, things might have been different.

Mayfield still had to make the throws and turn such a bad situation into a personal positive. Something he managed to accomplish with 70 percent of his passes completed for 155 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions, and a 126.0 passer rating according to ESPN.

As stated previously, the Carolina Panthers went back in Mayfield’s direction at the first opportunity. There was enough zip and accuracy in his distribution to indicate further improvements down the line, but the attitude and standard of the opposition with the tie already decided is enough to be skeptical.

With that being said, this was as difficult as it gets in terms of situational football with morale lower than ever. So for that reason, Mayfield deserves credit for his contribution.